#soarynn snow

[slaymitchabernathy]

The Legacy

“Daddy! Daddy look what Mommy did to my hair!”

Coriolanus looks down at his daughter, his heart and soul. His Ceraphina.

Born four years ago on a stormy night, Ceraphina stole his heart and never gave it back. She’s been an absolute light in their lives, always making them laugh and smile.

She looks nearly identical to Soarynn which only furthers his need to protect her, to always keep her safe from any harm that might come her way. It often leads him to wonder what their other children might look like should they have more. Soarynn has spoken about it many times, expanding their family and giving Ceraphina a sibling but only time will tell.

He smiles down at his daughter who proudly shows him the bow that Soarynn has fastened in her wavy blonde hair. Many things can be said for the Snow family and what they’re known for.

Some view him as a dictator rather than a President although most people who think that live in the Districts. They have no love for him or his family. Others see him as a wonderful President who only has the best intentions for his beloved country. Those are the people who he’s gladly welcoming into his home tonight for the Presidential Gala.

He’s just about finished with getting ready but he’ll always have a moment to spare for his darling daughter who gazes up at him with eyes identical to her mother’s. “Well, don’t you look fabulous darling? And this bow? Some of the best work I’ve ever seen. You’re sure to be the center of attention tonight.”

Ceraphina’s eyes dazzle at his words of praise and she smiles, “Thank you, Daddy! I can’t wait to go to the chocolate fountain.” Coriolanus grins because he knows that Ceraphina would spend the rest of her life next to the chocolate fountain if she could. It’s also Soarynn’s favorite part of the dessert table which further proves that Ceraphina is her twin.

“Yes, after you eat all your dinner hmm?” He asks while fixing his tie. He can't afford to look bad tonight, not with the amount of cameras that will be snapping pictures of them. Ceraphina’s small hands grip the marble countertop as she tries to peer at her reflection but she’s still too little to see.

Coriolanus scoops her up and places her on the counter, basking in her giggles when he tickles her. “Tickle monster!” She cries, shrieking with laughter. When Ceraphina was younger, she was terrified of sleeping alone in her bedroom due to her fear of the closet and what lay inside of it when the lights were out.

It got to the point where she’d bawl her eyes out when Soarynn or Coriolanus tried to put her to sleep. It didn’t matter how many books they read or how many songs Soarynn sang, she refused to be left alone. Coriolanus could easily see where the problem was going and how it would lead to Ceraphina sleeping in their bed and he just couldn’t have that.

So, the tickle monster was born.

He told Ceraphina that there was a monster in the closet and that he was very good friends with the monster and sometimes the monster took over and tortured her with tickles. It solved the problem rather quickly which he was glad for, even though Soarynn hated how he got her riled up right before bedtime.

“He’s returned,” Coriolanus agrees, sneaking in a few more tickles before ceasing his attack. Ceraphina giggles and turns to look at their reflections, her blue-gray eyes going wide when she sees herself. “Daddy?”

“Yes, my darling?”

“Do I look pretty like Mommy?”

Coriolanus raises his eyebrows at the question and he doesn’t hesitate to answer. “Of course you do darling. Your Mommy is the most beautiful woman in all of Panem and you are the most beautiful girl in all of Panem. No one could ever compare to the two of you.”

Ceraphina smiles and nods at her reflection as if all is right in the world after receiving that answer, “Do I look like Mommy?”

Coriolanus hums and grabs his favorite cologne before liberally applying it to his neck, he can’t afford to smell bad either. “Yes darling, you and Mommy are practically twins. You’re a spitting image of her.” She truly is, with her wavy hair and her startling eyes. Coriolanus is glad that Ceraphina has taken after Soarynn when it comes to looks.

Soarynn who has been so openly praised for her youthful beauty and charming personality, her kind demeanor, and her graceful femininity. Soarynn is perfect which automatically makes Ceraphina perfect since she spends nearly every waking moment with her.

With an entire country to run, Coriolanus doesn’t get to see Ceraphina a lot during the week. Soarynn however, has dedicated her every waking moment to taking care of their daughter and Coriolanus couldn’t be more pleased with her devotion as a mother.

It’s as if her ears are burning because a moment later, Soarynn walks into the bathroom looking gorgeous as always. She’s dressed in a floor-length gown, black to match his own attire it seems. The dress is strapless and clings to her figure in a most flattering way and it has a slit going up her right leg. Her hair is cascading down her back, flawless as always, and her face, her beautiful face.

Coriolanus nearly gets lost looking at it until Ceraphina voices his feelings for him.

“Mommy you look so pretty!”

Soarynn smiles at their daughter who thinks of her mother as the moon and stars and places a loving hand on her cheek, “Thank you my sweet darling. And don’t you look so beautiful in your pink dress? Did you show your father your bow?”

Ceraphina nods proudly, eyeing Coriolanus to confirm that she did in fact show off her hair bow. He chuckles and places a hand on Soarynn’s waist, admiring the stunning creature that is his wife, “She did, in fact, we were just talking about how you two look alike.”

Soarynn’s smile widens as she runs a loving hand through Ceraphina’s hair, “Well if I’m half as kind as you are darling then that’s more than enough for me. Now why don’t you go find nanny so she can help you with your shoes?”

Ceraphina pouts but one stern look from Coriolanus quickly resolves any tantrums and Soarynn carefully helps her down from the counter before she runs off to find her nanny.

Rarely do they ever enlist the help of others, of outsiders, but on nights like this where the drinks are flowing and their attention is pulled every which way, a nanny is more than necessary.

Coriolanus pulls Soarynn against him and she giggles, allowing him to press kisses up and down her neck, “You’re terribly possessive darling,” she purrs, her nails gently scratching up and down the back of his neck, his favorite spot.

Coriolanus places one last kiss before pulling away and staring her in the eyes, nearly losing his breath in the process, “Only with you my love,” he assures her, “only with you.”

Soarynn sighs and rests her head on his shoulder, seemingly content for them to just stay here instead of going downstairs to the Gala that awaits them. “Remind me of anyone important tonight,” she murmurs, her hand instantly finding his.

Coriolanus places a kiss on her temple before answering, “Quintus Heavensbee for starters, also the new Head Game Maker, Arthus Crane, and his wife will be attending.” Soarynn hums and her hand comes to rest on the necklace she almost always wears, a locket with photos of Coriolanus, Ceraphina, and Petunia.

Speaking of Petunia…where is she?

Coriolanus doesn’t mind his wife’s cat for the most part but he does always make sure to keep her tucked away when they have guests over like this.

"Well I'm sure tonight will be wonderful," Soarynn says with a sigh, "I just hope that Ceraphina will go down without a fuss." Ceraphina is a sweet angelic child, however, she often refuses to go to bed during things like this where she feels like she's leaving the party. She eventually gives in but it can be rather tiresome when Soarynn and Coriolanus have guests to entertain.

He gives her an encouraging squeeze, "It'll be perfect darling. I promise."

꧁ ꧂

"Oh, she's just precious."

Coriolanus basks in the compliments that Ceraphina receives while she plays on the grass with her teddy bear. It's normally frowned upon for children to be playing on the dirty ground during a party but Ceraphina, it seems, is the only exception. And besides, the Mansion's grounds are so well kept, not a blade of grass is out of place.

"You'd do well to give her a sibling to play with," Festus Creed says to him, nudging Coriolanus with his elbow. Coriolanus looks over at Soarynn who's standing amongst her own friends, laughing whilst sipping their champagne.

He'd love another child, she'd love another child. Perhaps they should really start trying again. Soarynn never got her implant put back in after giving birth to Ceraphina, but they haven't been keeping track of her cycle to know exactly when to really try.

Perhaps it's time to start back up again.

"I'll work on that," he says teasingly, taking a drink of his whiskey. The Gala is going extremely well, photos have been taken, compliments given and drinks have been flowing.

"Ceraphina darling, it's time for bed," Soarynn calls, approaching their pouting daughter. All the women fawn over how adorable she is when interacting with Soarynn who easily calms their daughters pouting with the promise of Petunia sleeping in her room.

Ceraphina loves Petunia, she’s always chasing her around the house and forcing her to partake in her tea parties. To have Petunia spend the night in her room is a treat as special as any. And that’s seems to do the trick because moments later she’s running over to bid Coriolanus a goodnight.

“Goodnight Daddy! I’ll see you in the morning!”

Despite being the President of Panem, feared by so many and respected by few, Coriolanus doesn’t hesitate to get down on one knee to press a kiss to her cheek, “Goodnight my darling. Have the sweetest dreams.”

Ceraphina nods and runs back over to Soarynn who takes her hand and begins to lead them up the many, many stairs that lead back up to the terrace. Coriolanus watches them once they reach the top where Ceraphina’s nanny is waiting for them.

Soarynn bends down to give Ceraphina a hug and kiss goodnight before she’s entrusted with the nanny for the rest of the night.

“Persephone won’t stop complaining about how much is left to do with the nursery,” Festus groans which pulls Coriolanus back into the conversation, “she’s acting like it’ll be the end of the world if we don’t have the perfect curtains or photographs.”

Coriolanus chuckles, remembering how adamant Soarynn had been on perfecting Ceraphina’s nursery while she was pregnant with her. “Women tend to fuss over these things my friend,” Coriolanus tells him solemnly, “all we can do is foot the bill and let them do whatever they want.”

Soarynn had been an angel all things considered during her pregnancy. Despite some morning nausea and the occasional snippy attitude when she was nearing the end of the grueling nine months, Coriolanus had nothing to complain about.

In the end, she gave him something he could never replace.

His legacy.

꧁ ꧂

There comes a point at every party when the drinks have taken their toll on the guests, including Coriolanus.

His head is slightly buzzing with the amount of alcohol he’s consumed but some of the other guests are much worse than he is. At least he can stand.

“I’ve heard rumors of an uprising in One,” Livia Cardew murmurs to his right which causes his head to snap in her direction. She’s talking to Soarynn, it’s a private conversation but he has no issue butting in where he sees fit. “We have absolutely nothing to worry about in One,” he tells Livia who rolls her eyes in return.

“Why not? Because you said so? We both know how much those people hate us Coriolanus. They’d do anything to get under our skin,” Livia says, looking at Soarynn who simply purses her lips.

Before Coriolanus can say anything, he sees a white blur run across the ballroom floor. He must be drunk because for a moment, he thought he saw Petunia. Which is impossible because Petunia is upstairs, in Ceraphina’s room asleep. They never let her roam around during things like this.

After taking a look at Soarynn’s face however, he begins to wonder if he really did imagine it.

Soarynn breaks away from the conversation without so much as a polite excuse as she walks towards the other end of the ballroom, her husband and good friend long forgotten.

“Where’s she going?” Livia asks and Coriolanus can only shake his head, “I think we both saw something. I’m not quite sure though. Would you excuse me for a moment?”

Coriolanus doesn’t wait for a reply, he just makes his way over to the doors that lead into the dining room where they always eat when they have large gatherings such as this one. Two Peacekeepers are stationed by the doors and both nod at him once they notice his approach, “Have you seen my wife?” He asks, wondering where Soarynn could have gone.

If Petunia was down here then they definitely would have heard about it. All of Soarynn’s friends adore Petunia and always fuss over her to his dismay.

“Yes sir. She just went upstairs a minute ago. She was carrying the cat.”

Petunia was down here.

Why was Petunia down here?

How would Petunia be able to get all the way downstairs if she was in Ceraphina’s room?

Coriolanus frowns while he tries to come up with a reasonable answer as to why Petunia was downstairs when he hears a scream.

Soarynn’s scream.

And he’s running. Running down the great hall. Running up the stairs. Running towards Ceraphina’s room where he finds the doors wide open, Petunia darting out and down the hall.

What he finds inside the room is blood curdling.

Soarynn on her knees, stifling her sobs while staring at Ceraphina’s nanny, dead on the ground.

His eyes dart to the pink canopy bed where Ceraphina sleeps and he finds it empty.

Empty.

Someone took her.

Someone took his daughter. His baby girl.

“Ceraphina?” He calls, looking around to see if maybe she’s hiding somewhere. She loves to hide, to play games like hide-and-seek but this isn’t a game, it’s not funny. “Ceraphina Snow come out here this instant,” he says, his voice wavering despite wanting to sound authoritative.

Soarynn gasps for air and he turns his attention to her, to his beautiful wife sobbing in the floor, “Soarynn? Soarynn darling what happened? Who did this? Are you hurt?”

Soarynn shakes her head, going to wipe her tears but deciding against it at the last moment. She has nothing to hide here. “They took her Coriolanus,” she whispers, “I don’t know who but they took her and killed the nanny.”

The Peacekeepers finally made their way up and there all wide eyed when they take in the sight of Ceraphina’s room in disarray. The bedsheets thrown off the bed, toys scattered, the nanny dead.

“Search the house,” Coriolanus tells them, “search every room, every corner, every hallway. Find my daughter.”

They immediately take off to search the rest of the house and most likely question the guests. Everyone is a suspect now.

Coriolanus crouches down and carefully wraps his arms around Soarynn’s trembling frame, “We'll find her darling, we’ll find her. She’s probably somewhere in the house.”

Soarynn lets out a whimper and his heart breaks even more, he's never seen his wife like this, unable to speak, to cope. A million thoughts race through his mind while he holds Soarynn.

Who did this? How did people get into the Mansion? Was this an inside job?

It's no secret that many people hate Coriolanus Snow and would do anything to hurt him, but taking his child is on another level. There will be hell to pay.

He can hear shouting, the guests are being questioned no doubt. This had to be done by someone they knew, someone they trusted inside of their home.

But who?

Soarynn is in no condition to get off the floor but Coriolanus can't just sit here restless while his daughter is out there somewhere, probably terrified out of her mind. "I'll be back," he says to Soarynn whose eyes have gone vacant, "I'll go find her I promise." He presses a gentle kiss to the side of her head before standing up and leaving the room.

He finds the ballroom in disarray, everyone is shouting while Peacekeepers yell even louder. Festus finds him in the crowd and grabs his arm, "Coriolanus what the hell is going on?" He shouts over the noise. His wife Persephone is right behind him and she looks flushed. The Capitolites aren't used to being pushed around it seems.

"Someone took Ceraphina," Coriolanus says, his voice hollow. Saying it out loud makes it feel so much more real. Like it's the truth. Both Festus and Persephone gasp and Persephone places her hand on her chest, "Oh my...oh my goodness. Have you searched the grounds for her? Perhaps she wanted to go play outside."

Coriolanus feels his eyes light up at the suggestion, maybe she's right, maybe Ceraphina slipped out of bed before her nanny was shot. Coriolanus forges forward towards the terrace doors, ignoring the shouts he gets from his guests asking what's warranted this treatment.

"The President's daughter has been taken!" One of the Peacekeepers shouts, causing a hush to fall over the room. "Until she is found, we will be questioning everyone who attended the Gala tonight. Everyone is a suspect until proven otherwise. If you have any information regarding her disappearance, let us know."

Coriolanus pushes the large doors open and he's hit with the evening air. Just a while ago he was out here watching his daughter play and now she's gone. He can hear and see several other Peacekeepers searching for her outside, shouting her name but he has to look for her himself.

"Ceraphina! Ceraphina where are you darling?"

Coriolanus descends the steps leading down to the grounds with haste as his eyes scan the dark landscape. The only source of light is from the greenhouse which they always lock for events like this. But maybe she slipped inside. Coriolanus begins towards the greenhouse when he steps on something.

He looks down and feels as if he might throw up.

It's her bow.

The bow that Soarynn put in her hair. The bow that Ceraphina so proudly showed him before the Gala.

Coriolanus crouches down to pick it up and feels how soft it is. She was out here, they must've taken her through the grounds, whoever they are.

"President Snow, we found something in the greenhouse!"

꧁ ꧂

'You take our children from us every year, now we took yours. Find us where it all began.'

Coriolanus reads those words over and over again.

The Rebels. People from the Districts took her.

Coriolanus crumples up the note the Peacekeepers found in the greenhouse and lets out a frustrated groan. She's truly in danger now, who knows what those District scum will do to her.

They had broken some of the glass panes of the greenhouse, slipped in, and left the note by the fountain for him to find. How long have they been planning this?

"Put the entire Capitol on lockdown," he says, his voice cold and bitter, "no one in, no one out. Stop all the trains, question anyone working at the border. Search the city street by street."

He doesn't look up from the ground but he hears feet shuffling over broken glass and he hears a few Peacekeepers mumbling, "Madam Snow."

He looks over his shoulder to see Soarynn standing in the doorway. Her eyes are bloodshot, and her hands are still shaking as she takes a slow step into the greenhouse. "Where...where is she?" Soarynn asks him. If only he could tell her.

Coriolanus pinches the bridge of his nose and shakes his head, "I don't know," he admits, "it was the Rebels. They left a note, and...and I found this," he pulls out the bow from his pocket and holds it out to her.

Soarynn gasps at the sight and her lip trembles, "Is she going to die Coriolanus? Are they going to kill our baby girl?"

Coriolanus sets his jaw and his fingers wrap around the bow, nearly crushing it, "No. Not if I have anything to do with it. The city is on lockdown, and there's no way they already made it out. She's here somewhere we just have to know where to look."

Soarynn wipes away a tear and takes in a shaky breath, "What...what did the note say?"

Coriolanus looks back down at the crumpled piece of paper and he's already imagining killing whoever wrote that cryptic piece of shit. "They said to find them where it all began, and that they took her because we take their children."

The Hunger Games are brutal by design, a way to remind the Districts of their failure and to punish those who are seemingly "innocent."

A wave of recognition flashes over Soarynn's face and she steps towards him, "The arena," she whispers, her blue-gray eyes wide with realization, "where it all began. They took her to the old arena where we used to hold the Games, oh Coriolanus she's right under our noses."

It all clicks in his mind a moment later. She's right. They took her to the old arena where the Games were first held. An old arena that's no longer used, filled with corpses and bones no doubt.

Coriolanus gently takes her hand in his, giving it a squeeze, "I'll have every man we can spare surround the arena. I'll go find her Soarynn, I promise. I'll bring her back."

New tears form in Soarynn's eyes and she's swift to blink them away, "So you won't let me go with you?"

He nearly laughs at her question. He'd be a fool to bring his other prized possession with him to the fight. Only a fool would bring his wife to a possible ambush like this one. No, she needs to stay here where she's safe.

If their home is even safe anymore.

"No. I can't lose you too Soarynn. I need you to stay here, stay with the Heavensbees. I'll have my most trusted men watch over you while the rest of the staff is questioned, I'm sure some of them were in on this." It's no secret that the Snows have a wide variety of staff, some originating from the Capitol and a few from the Districts.

Those who are from the Districts are Avoxes but you don't need a tongue to betray your employer. Many will die tonight.

Soarynn nods, staring down at the bow still in his other hand, "Bring her home."

꧁ ꧂

"It's a small group of men. Seven. And she's with them. Unharmed from what I could see. They asked for you specifically, won't say anything to us."

Coriolanus is briefed on the current situation conspiring inside the old arena and he feels himself growing more and more angry as the seconds pass. The old arena's gates have been chained shut for years now but they've been blown wide open by the Peacekeepers who are all positioned outside with trucks and lots and lots of guns.

Anyone who leaves the arena will be shot on sight.

"I'm going inside," Coriolanus tells the Commander who gives him a worried look, "I have to get her back, and I also have to pretend to consider their terms. This isn't just a hostage situation, its a negotiation."

Coriolanus isn't really asking, he's just letting the man know and he seems to recognize that. "Let me get you a vest then, can't have you getting shot." That would not be good.

Coriolanus is prepped with a bulletproof vest, a concealed gun, and a flash-bang grenade. He's dressed like he's going to war, which he would happily do for his daughter.

He watches two medic trucks pull up to the side of the arena, he hopes those won't be needed.

"We'll surround them from above, just keep them talking and once we have a clear shot, we'll take them all down," the Commander assures him as they approach the front entrance of the arena.

When Coriolanus was a little boy, he came to this arena to watch the circus. He always took a different entrance, the entrance for the wealthy. It's fitting that these Rebels took the front entrance meant for poor people.

It's dark in the tunnel but Coriolanus can see a source of light coming from inside the arena. He pushes through the turnstiles and cringes at the loud automated voice.

"Enjoy the show!"

Coriolanus looks back at the army of Peacekeepers watching him guns ready. At least if he's chased, they'll shoot anything that pursues him but that does very little to soothe his nerves.

Coriolanus sucks in a sharp breath as he finally comes into the arena and comes face to face with a group of men and his daughter.

Ceraphina is dressed in her pajamas and is holding one of the men's hands. She seems fine, unharmed like the Commander said. Her eyes light up when she sees him, "Daddy! Daddy, you found me!"

Coriolanus pays the Rebels no mind as he smiles at his daughter who's seemingly unaware of the current situation, and he’d like to keep it that way, "I did sweetheart. I found you."

He’s still walking but one of the Rebels holds up a large gun, pointed right at him, "That's far enough." His District accent clashes with the ones from the Capitol and Coriolanus feels hatred coursing through his veins. "I've come to negotiate," he says calmly.

The men sneer and give each other looks, "We've been trying to negotiate for years, looks like you only care when we have something that belongs to you."

Coriolanus opens his mouth to respond but Ceraphina seems to have an agenda of her own, "Daddy I want Mommy!" Oh, Soarynn. Coriolanus hopes she's alright at home.

The man holding Ceraphina's hand looks down at her and nods, "You'll see your Mommy real soon, as long as your Daddy does what we tell him to do." Ceraphina doesn't seem scared of this man, or any of them for that matter, she simply nods and bounces on her toes, "Okay!"

Coriolanus turns his focus back onto his daughter's kidnappers, "Just name your terms." The ringleader it seems, steps forward with a cocky look on his face, "You're gonna stop the Hunger Games and stop taking our children. In return, we'll let her go and we won't keep showing up in your house. She's not the only one who matters to you is she?"

Now they've brought Soarynn into this, and for that, they'll have to die.

Coriolanus clenches his jaw at the threat so casually thrown at his wife, his darling girl who's worried sick about him and their daughter. "Fine, I’ll agree to your terms, but I want my daughter back first. She has nothing to do with this."

The men break into a fit of laughter as if he just told the funniest joke in the world. "She has everything to do with this! Bet you thought you'd be safe in that Mansion of yours but you aren't. The innocent must be punished."

Coriolanus spots the smallest bit of movement from the stands above them and adrenaline is coursing through his veins. He needs Cerpahina to move away from these men. He can't have her see this, not if he can help it.

“Are we done playing the game now?” Ceraphina asks with a whine, now rocking back and forth on her heels. She’s barefoot which infuriates him even further. They fucking kidnapped his daughter but couldn’t bother to get her some shoes to wear.

She’s given several nasty looks from her captors who clearly hadn’t anticipated her being so fussy but it’s past her bedtime and they’ve dragged her to the most undesirable place in the Capitol. They only have themselves to blame.

“Looks like your Daddy agreed to our terms,” the ringleader says slowly, tilting his head at Coriolanus as if taunting him, “so I guess the game is over.”

The game?

Coriolanus can only imagine what they’re talking about.

Once given a nod, the man holding onto Ceraphina’s hand lets go and she smiles up at him, “Goodbye!” Coriolanus waits with a bated breath as she slowly walks towards him, he knows she doesn’t understand but he wishes she’d walk faster. The sooner he has her in his arms, the better.

The moment Ceraphina is within reach, Coriolanus grabs her off the ground and wraps both arms around her small body, “Oh sweetheart, we were so worried about you.”

He spots more movement from above. It’s time.

Ceraphina returns his embrace and giggles, “Why were you worried Daddy? They said we were playing hide and seek, and you always find me.”

Coriolanus wishes she could always remain this innocent and naive but with attacks like this happening, he fears it may be impossible.

Coriolanus gives her a tight-lipped smile, “Yes, Daddy always finds you my darling. Now cover your ears and close your eyes very tight for me.” Ceraphina furrows her eyebrows and frowns, "Why? Why can't we play some more?"

Coriolanus can feel his patience thinning as the seconds pass but he can't snap at his darling daughter, not when she's the victim in all of this. "We can play when we get home and see Mommy. Now close your eyes and cover your ears for me sweetheart."

That seems to be enough to convince Ceraphina who squeezes her eyes shut as tightly as she can and places her hands over her ears. Coriolanus turns on his heel and he revels in the sound of guns firing and Rebels crying out as the bullets pierce their skin. Coriolanus rubs Ceraphina's back as he walks back through the tunnel, whispering soothing words even though she can't hear them.

The bullets cease and it's so quiet in the arena. It's wonderful.

And once again, Snow lands on top.

꧁ ꧂

The Mansion is empty when they return.

Guests are gone, music has ceased, the party is over.

Coriolanus quietly pads down the great hall towards one of the many sitting rooms they have, Ceraphina fast asleep in his arms.

He spots Quintus Heavensbee, his most trusted advisor standing in the hall, perking up when he spots the father-daughter duo. "Thank goodness," he whispers, clapping Coriolanius on the shoulder once they reach him, "we were so worried that neither of you would return."

Coriolanus lets out a tired sigh and places a loving hand on the back of Ceraphina's head, cradling her, "We took down the Rebel group, although now I wish we had questioned them first. Who knows how many more were aware of the plan."

Quintus shakes his head fervently, "No need to worry about that my friend. We captured four other Rebels who were in on it working in the Mansion." Coriolanus feels a newfound source of anger bubbling inside of him.

Rebels in the President's Mansion. What a fucking joke.

Quintus takes notice of his concealed anger and pats his shoulder lightly, "Let's talk about this tomorrow morning. Right now your wife and daughter need you more than ever." Ceraphina wakes at the mention of her mother and yawns, rubbing her eyes, "I want Mommy."

Both men smile at her sweet request and Quintus nods towards the doors that lead to the sitting room, "She's in there with my wife and Ms. Trinket." Coriolanus can't help but feel relieved to hear that Eudora Trinket, the woman who plans every second of his life, wasn't in on the Rebel scheme.

She’d been there for all the appointments concerning Soarynn’s pregnancy and she’d held Soarynn’s other hand when she gave birth. To lose Eudora to the Rebels would hit their family hard.

Coriolanus doesn’t waste another moment to push open the large doors revealing his wife sitting on the edge of a sofa, her knee bouncing up and down while she nervously awaits more news about the kidnapping of her daughter.

She looks up at them and gasps, her eyes focusing on Ceraphina as she stands up and crosses the room within seconds. She’s grabbing Ceraphina from his arms, cradling her, kissing her face, assessing her for damage all while trying not to cry.

“Oh my sweet darling,” Soarynn whispers, pressing a kiss to her head, “I was so worried about you. Thank goodness you’re safe.” Coriolanus wraps an arm around Soarynn’s trembling frame and rubs soothing circles on her back, “She’s alright darling, she’s safe now.”

Ceraphina simply basks in the attention she’s given from both her parents and rests a small hand on Soarynn’s cheek, “Mommy my pajamas got dirty.” Soarynn presses a small kiss to her hand and hums, “Mommy will give you a nice bath sweetheart, and then you can sleep in Mommy and Daddy’s room tonight.”

Coriolanus already knows how this will go, the never dissipating fear that will forever live in Soarynn now that she knows what it’s like to have her daughter taken from her. She’ll want Ceraphina with her all day every day.

Ceraphina’s eyes widen at the opportunity to sleep in her parent’s bedroom, something she’s never done before, “Really? Can I bring my bear?” Out of the all the stuffed animals she’s been gifted over the years, her stuffed teddy bear is by far her favorite.

Soarynn nods and runs her fingers through Ceraphina’s hair, “Yes darling, you can bring your bear.” That seems to be more than enough for Ceraphina who buries her face in Soarynn’s neck, seemingly exhausted from tonight’s events.

Soarynn lets out a shaky breath and leans into Coriolanus and his hold, “Thank you,” she whispers, her blue-gray eyes meeting his piercing blue ones, “thank you for finding her and bringing her back to me.”

Coriolanus feels himself getting choked up, their sweet baby girl could’ve died tonight and he refuses to imagine the shell of a person Soarynn would become if that happened.

So he simply holds her a little tighter and kisses her temple, “I’ll always fight to keep you two together my darling, always.”

꧁ ꧂

“Daddy look! Bubbles!”

Ceraphina’s voice is the first thing to greet Coriolanus when he walks into his bathroom. He smiles down at Ceraphina who’s sitting in the tub surrounded by bubbles and floating toys. She’s completely oblivious to what went down tonight and he can’t decide if that’s a good thing or a bad thing.

He watches Ceraphina play for a moment before watching his wife who’s sitting on her knees right next to the tub, watching Ceraphina as if she might disappear and never come back.

She almost did, he reminds himself.

He’s worried for Soarynn. Worried about how this might have affected her.

Despite Quintus and his protests, Coriolanus went over the events that conspired tonight and was able to see the other Rebels who were in on the plan. They had of course been detained but one was a Peacekeeper, two were maids and one was a gardener. He’d have them all executed before the week was over. And to ensure that they hadn’t planted any seeds of a revolution in the rest of his household staff, he’d execute them too.

Better safe than sorry.

He’d tasked a few of the remaining maids to clean up Ceraphina’s bedroom, wipe the blood off the floor. He wondered if her nanny had been in on it. Would Soarynn ever trust anyone else with the care of their daughter?

Probably not.

“Let’s get you dried off darling,” Soarynn says and Coriolanus snaps back into the present and makes his way into the closet to change out of his clothes. Hours ago he was getting dressed for the Gala so unaware of what would happen.

He dresses himself in some pajama pants before he comes back into the bathroom to wash his face and comb through his curls. He hears a meow and looks down to find Petunia watching him, her tail swishing back and forth in the air.

“Thank you,” he quietly says to the cat, “we would’ve never known if you hadn’t come downstairs to warn us.”

Petunia only blinks but it says enough to him.

He can hear Ceraphina giggling from the bedroom, not at all tired now that she’s allowed to sleep in her parent’s room. A moment later he hears her little footsteps approaching him, “Daddy! Daddy can you read me a bedtime story?”

Coriolanus grabs a towel and dries off his face, “Of course I can darling. Why don’t you get into bed and I’ll meet you there in a minute?”

An excited gasp is all he hears before she’s running back into the bedroom and Coriolanus takes a long good look in the mirror.

Will people always try to hurt his family? Will they always target the two good things in his life? Those men mentioned Soarynn, mentioned hurting her to him. Should he send the girls away? Hide them somewhere that no one knows about?

It would break Soarynn’s heart but it’s better than finding her with a bullet in her head.

He’ll talk to her more about his ideas tomorrow. They’re all exhausted from today.

When Coriolanus comes into the bedroom, Soarynn and Ceraphina are already in bed. Soarynn hasn’t changed out of her clothes from tonight but she probably doesn’t want to leave Ceraphina, even for a quick shower. She gives him a tired smile when she notices him, “She’s very excited for your bedtime story.”

Coriolanus grins and carefully slips into bed, his hand smoothing down Ceraphina’s hair that Soarynn braided down her back. She’s squished between her two parents and looks happier than ever.

“What game did you play tonight darling?” He asks her, his curiosity getting the best of him. Soarynn gives him a curious look but she wasn’t there in that arena with those men.

Ceraphina yawns, “We played hide-and-seek and they said we had to wait for you to come and find me.” Soarynn seems to have put the pieces together and she absentmindedly rubs her hand up and down Ceraphina’s back, “Were they nice to you? Did they yell or say mean things to you?”

Did they touch you?

That’s what Soarynn really wants to ask but Coriolanus can already see her holding back tears.

Ceraphina shakes her head and plays with the silk pillow case, “No. No, they didn’t yell Mommy. They said we were playing a game. Then I got scared so one of them let me hold his hand. Can I hear the story now Daddy?”

Coriolanus nods, his mind a thousand miles away from telling a bedtime story but he has to get through this first. “Of course sweetheart. Once upon a time…”

꧁ ꧂

Neither Coriolanus nor Soarynn can take their eyes off of their sleeping daughter. She’s been asleep for over an hour and yet they’re just…watching her.

“I remember when she was so little,” Soarynn whispers, her fingertips ghosting Ceraphina’s cheek, “when she was just a baby I would watch her sleep for hours. I was so terrified she’d stop breathing in her sleep. This was when you were coming home at all hours of the night, so it was really just me and her.”

Soarynn swallows down a sob, “And I would just watch her sleep. And think and pray to whoever was listening, ‘Please don’t take her. Please don’t take my daughter away from me.’ Then tonight I felt like it was some sick joke, like whoever was listening hated me and hated my daughter.”

Tears fall down Soarynn’s cheeks and Coriolanus reaches out for her, careful not to crush their sleeping daughter. “Shhh, shhh it’s alright Soarynn. She’s safe, she’s safe and no one will ever touch her again. Anyone who wanted to hurt her is dead now and they wanted to hurt her because they hated me. No one could ever hate you sweet girl.”

Soarynn shakes her head and wipes her tears, staring up at the ceiling for a moment, “They could’ve killed her Coriolanus. Or touched her or made her take something. I…I kept hoping that instead of hurting our little girl and torturing her, they’d just kill her instead. At least then she wouldn’t have to suffer.”

This attack has shaken the Snows.

They’ll be expected to give a statement to give a warning to those who try and hurt them.

Coriolanus quietly slips out of bed and rounds the other side so that he can properly hold his wife, “She’s alive Soarynn. She’s alive and she’s asleep in our bed. It’s been such a long night darling and we need to get you dressed in something else. Why don’t we go find you something else to wear?”

Soarynn shakes her head, pulling back when he tried to scoop her into his arms, “I won’t leave her Coriolanus. I’m never leaving her again.”

He sighs. His girl has always been stubborn but now she’s cemented in her mind. Surrounded by fear. “Okay,” he whispers, placing a gentle hand on her cheek, “okay then why don’t I go find you something to wear? I’ll be right back darling.”

That seems to sound better to Soarynn who nods and curls back up with Ceraphina, holding her tightly.

Coriolanus feels his hands curling into fists the second he’s out of her sight. Those men may have not touched Soarynn physically, but they did emotionally. They’ve terrified his wife and he’s going to make everyone in the Districts pay for it.

He’ll do anything to protect the ones he loves.

To protect his legacy.

| tumblr oneshot/drabble |

[slaymitchabernathy]

Cruel Intentions

| based off the man requests i have gotten for a new arranged marriage series!!! |

Coriolanus often wonders how he missed it. How it slipped his mind, how he was so naive, so stupid to miss it.

He thinks back to their wedding day, how sweet she was, how well behaved and perfect she was. To him, it made total sense, she was perfect because he deserved someone perfect, someone to devote their life to making him happy.

After all, Snow lands on top.

So he gave her his last name, slipped the ring on her finger, smiled for the photos, cut the cake, and whisked her away to his penthouse that would forever be her home.

The ring on his finger now feels like a ball and chain and he wants nothing more than to rip it off and toss it into the trash.

Three months ago Coriolanus Snow married Soarynn Nightingale. It was an arranged marriage, nothing new in the Capitol's elite circles who intended on keeping their circles small and exclusive. Why risk your son or daughter marrying out of their tax bracket when you can just arrange the whole thing?

Coriolanus met Soarynn at a dinner with both their parents, or well, his parents and her father. Apparently, her mother tragically passed away during childbirth, leaving Glen Nightingale with a baby girl and not a clue as to how to raise her. But he did good, he raised a polite, quiet, submissive daughter who conformed to all societal norms without the blink of an eye.

She was perfect.

Or so he thought.

The more he thinks about it, the more the signs become so obvious. Glen's eagerness to get the show on the road, how quiet Soarynn always was, how they never went on a date alone despite him being twenty-five and her being twenty. Coriolanus had brushed it off, his parents didn't want to risk a failed marriage so they were simply making sure that everything went as perfectly as possible.

Soarynn was one of the most beautiful girls he had ever seen, with dazzling eyes and luscious hair. She put other women to shame with her natural beauty. She dressed impeccably for someone her age and always used her manners when they were in public. Which was a good thing considering that Coriolanus was an aspiring politician who could not afford a bad reputation.

So when it came time to propose, he had no hesitation. He went out and bought a beautiful, expensive ring and slipped it on her finger without batting an eye.

Like a lamb to the fucking slaughter.

Their wedding was huge, it wasn't every day two prominent families became one. Everyone in the Capitol tuned in to watch their wedding and all their friends were there to witness the exchanging of vows.

Soarynn had been all sweet smiles and blushing cheeks, curling into him the moment too much attention landed in her lap. She had looked stunning in her wedding dress, it had been classy yet flattering for her figure, once again solidifying that he made the right choice in marrying Soarynn.

Once the wedding was over, he took her home and prepared to take her virginity, something every man planned for and every woman somewhat dreaded. He had been prepared to be gentle yet stern, she'd have to know who was the dominant party in their relationship.

She let him get the both of them undressed, on the bed and just as he was about to sink into her, she sunk her claws into him.

Soarynn was a fucking thorn in his side.

Coriolanus was quick to find out that the pretty quiet girl he thought he married was only like that in public. Behind closed doors, she gave him a run for his money. It had truly surprised him and the worst part was, no one would believe him if he told anyone. To everyone who knew her, Soarynn was so pliant, so sweet and willing to please.

He knows that he vowed to stand by her side no matter what but this has been a true testament to their marriage and they're only three months in. But he can't give up now, no, he has to push through, be strong and break her into the woman he wants her to be.

Right now she looks as innocent as ever, laughing with his mother across the room, sipping her tea. That little liar. Coriolanus looks at the man next to him who happens to be his father-in-law and wonders if Glen Nightingale is aware of the little fucking tyrant his daughter really is.

Soarynn should really consider becoming an actress based on the performance she's given everyone, including him. He was the dumbest audience member, drinking up every second of her lies.

"So when can we be expecting grandchildren?" His father asks him, causing his throat to dry up. Coriolanus has barely had time to think about children with his current campaign for President but he knows that children are expected with marriage, and sooner than possible. He can't imagine having children with Soarynn right now, they barely even have sex.

Despite her undesirable attitude towards him, Coriolanus wasn't going to let anything keep him from what was rightfully his. Sex was the one thing they could agree on. He only partook in sex when he needed to put her in her place, fucking her until she was screaming into the pillows.

It wasn't the most effective method, unfortunately. It would keep her quiet and put her in her place for about a day before she sparked back up and then he'd have to do it all over again. Coriolanus never thought he'd live in a time when sex felt like a chore but Soarynn really did bring out the worst in him.

"Soon," is all he says, watching his wife place her hand on top of his mother's. It's even worse because his mother loves Soarynn, she adores that girl like she's her own daughter. His father is more reserved in showing affection in general but Coriolanus can see it in his eyes that he's pleased with this union between them.

To his father, this is a successful business deal.

To Coriolanus, it's a punishment from an unknown source.

"How has she been doing?" Glen asks him, sipping his drink, "I know she was a bit nervous to move out." Coriolanus wants to roll his eyes at Glen's naivety but he too was once a fool who believed Soarynn's little act, "She's good," he tells Glen, offering him a tight-lipped smile, "it's been an adjustment for the both of us." The understatement of the fucking century but who's counting?

Glen nods, pleased that this has been going so well, "Ah good, I worried for the longest time that she wouldn't find someone, she's just so shy." She's also a fucking minx but what Glen doesn't know about his daughter won't hurt him.

It'll only hurt Coriolanus.

꧁ ꧂

Later that night the young Snow couple returns to their penthouse apartment and the act is dropped the second Soarynn steps through the door. "Keep your hands to yourself next time," she snaps, glaring up at him, "I'm not your fucking dog."

Coriolanus gave up on trying to be nice to her about a week into their marriage, "Well you certainly act like a little bitch," he shoots back, enjoying how her face falls. It's a battle of wits between the two of them and to his dismay, they're very well matched.

Soarynn is sharp and quick, never giving him too much time to recover from her little jabs. But Coriolanus sleeps well knowing that at the end of the day, she belongs to him.

"I'm not the one with my tail between my legs whenever we're around our parents," she says, walking down the hallway with haste. Coriolanus is right on her heels because she has no idea what he has to worry about on a daily basis. Soarynn spends her days shopping with friends and going to social events. She doesn't lift a fucking finger and yet she loves to show him her middle one.

He grabs her arm and pulls her back until they're face to face and he's fuming, "Fix your fucking attitude," he hisses, "before I fix it for you." If Soarynn was who she pretended to be, she'd be cowering in front of him with tears in her eyes, begging for forgiveness.

But she's not.

She smirks and tilts her head in the most sinister way possible, "What're you gonna do? Fuck me again? You know, you can't solve all of your problems by sticking your cock in me. One of these days you're going to have to actually grow a pair Coriolanus."

He's seething now, he'd never hit a woman but boy does she tempt him. "You belong to me," he says through gritted teeth, "and as my wife, your main priority should be to make me happy, not fucking miserable."

Soarynn rips her arm away from his grip, glaring up at him with her stormy blue eyes, "I don't belong to anyone," she spits out, "especially you."

Coriolanus watches her walk down the hall, furious and defeated at the same time.

He needs to get her under control, but how?

꧁ ꧂

"It's simple," Festus says, leaning over the table, "stop giving her what she wants."

Coriolanus feels terribly lost. He had come to his good friend Festus Creed for advice about his marriage since Festus actually believes his tales about Soarynn's behavior but now he's starting to wonder if he really is doomed.

"I don't give her anything," he claims and Festus shakes his head. "You keep giving her the reactions she's looking for," he explains, "she wants you to get upset, so you get upset. She wants you to doubt yourself and then you go ahead and doubt yourself. Stop reacting to her behavior and then you can correct it."

Coriolanus sits there dumbfounded, for once, Festus might be right.

Soarynn is clearly acting this way on purpose, to evoke a response, and one of these days if he's not careful, he's going to snap in public and then he will be the bad guy.

"Stop giving her what she wants and she'll be on her knees in no time," Festus promises, "it's reverse psychology."

Well, it's worth a shot.

꧁ ꧂

When Coriolanus comes home later that day, he doesn't go to find Soarynn like he usually does. Mostly because all he'll get in return is a glare and a scoff. Soarynn has made it very clear to him that she wants nothing to do with him unless they're in public. Behind closed doors, they stay apart, go their separate ways until it's time for bed.

He goes to his study instead, figuring he might as well prepare for his interview on Sunday. The Capitol News is interviewing all of the candidates running in the race and this will be a good time for him to gain some new supporters. He spends a few hours holed up in his study, going over questions, coming up with new, clever answers.

He still has time to go over anything with his advisors but he feels much better now that he knows what to expect. He glances at the clock on his desk and is shocked to see that it's well past dinner time. They usually have dinner together if he's home although they rarely speak and sit on opposite ends of the table.

Very domestic.

He considers getting up and going to the dining room to join her but decides against it, calling the maid to bring his dinner to him instead so he can do some more work.

It's nearing eight o'clock when he's disturbed by a soft knock at the door. "Come in," he says, still looking down at the papers in front of him. The door slowly opens and he hears her soft voice, "When did you get home?"

"Around one," he answers, not even looking at her.

"Oh."

Coriolanus resists the urge to grin, he might need to kiss Festus on the forehead because he's a genius for this idea.

"Did you need something?" He asks, flipping to the next page casually, "No," she says, "no I didn't need anything."

Coriolanus grunts, "Close the door behind you then."

He doesn't see her face but he can tell how his dismissing her makes her feel. Soarynn closes the door behind her and he listens to her quick receding footsteps.

Coriolanus finally breaks into a grin, it'll be a slow process to break Soarynn down but he's willing to put in the effort.

It's all about moves and countermoves.

꧁ ꧂

Coriolanus dives deep into his strategy of being cold and distant towards Soarynn. He doesn't speak to her unless absolutely necessary or if they're in public. He keeps himself busy with work and locked away in his study whenever he's home and refrains from taking any bait she lays out for him.

It's working tremendously well for him. Soarynn has been much more quiet and a lot more drawn back since he started acting this way. In public she's sweet but he can tell that she's desperate for the smallest touch he can offer her. But the second they're back home, he doesn't even look at her.

She did this to herself really, he's not the one to blame.

He's officially two months out from the election and the polls are in his favor. For now, though, something could always change as his advisors love to remind him. His mother is over the moon for his success and his father for once, seems genuinely proud of him. Running for President hasn't been an easy feat but he's doing exceptionally well if he says so himself.

He's getting ready for a charity dinner tonight, anything to show face and shake hands. Soarynn is coming with him to show support for her husband and he's got her in the palm of his hand.

He checks his reflection in the mirror one last time, making sure that his curls look perfect and that his tie is straight. The press will be there and he needs to be prepared for any questions they might ask him.

He can hear a small struggle ensuing in their bathroom and looks through the doors to see Soarynn struggling with the zipper of her dress. He sighs, he's been doing an excellent job of remaining cold and withdrawn so far but the small, hopeful part of him knows he should help her. After all, he is her husband.

He steps into the bathroom and she immediately tenses, watching him through the mirror, "Need some help?" He nods at the back of her dress and she looks unsure as to whether or not this is some sort of trap.

She finally nods, "Yes," she says softly.

Coriolanus walks up to her and rests one hand on her back while the other pulls the zipper up with ease. "Thank you," she says, turning to face him. He can see it in her eyes how lonely she is, despite having lots of friends and visiting her father, she's lonely in this big apartment when it's just the two of them. At least when they were arguing she could talk to someone.

"Tonight is very important," he tells her, ignoring her gratitude, "best behavior tonight." He walks out before she can say anything else, it's better this way.

It's better this way.

| Part 1. |

| tumblr oneshot/drabble |

| taglist: @strawberriicakes @wonderlandbound111 @kickmybark @villiansarehottest @thevoicesinmyprettylittlehead @melodyoflovee |

[slaymitchabernathy]

Let it Snow

Coriolanus is sound asleep in his nice, warm, comfy, warm bed. And better yet, with his fiancé right next to him, wrapped in his strong arms. It’s the kind of thing a man dreams of but Coriolanus has worked hard to get to where he is, to be able to provide a life of comfort and luxury for his darling fiancé.

He was content to sleep for another six hours before the alarm clock went off, waking him from his slumber so he could trudge to work but her cat, the little diva has different plans apparently.

Coriolanus can hear her pacing around, even in his deep sleep the sound of her claws on the hardwood floor are like nails on a chalkboard to him. And then she starts talking, meowing, yowling as if it isn’t the middle of the night.

He might just have to get a dog this Christmas to keep Petunia on her toes because this is just getting out of hand!

Coriolanus grumbles and tries to ignore her but it’s not use, the damn cat won’t shut up.

“Soarynn,” he mumbles against her back, his lips almost pressed to her shoulder, “Soarynn, please get Petunia to shut up.”

Soarynn unfortunately, can sleep through anything. The girl has been blessed with the ability to close her eyes anywhere and at anytime with out any issues.

Coriolanus is not so lucky.

Another loud meow from Petunia is all it takes for him to fully wake up and roll onto his back, staring up at the ceiling while contemplating his life choices.

Why did he have to get Soarynn a cat?

Why not a goldfish?

Goldfish die so quickly but cats can live well into their twenties.

And he knows why he got her a cat, because she was lonely at night when she’d wait for him to come home from work. He just wishes he could’ve gotten some sort of trial run with Petunia before he fully committed.

To his horror, Petunia hops onto the bed, right into his lap as if she pays the bills. When she was a kitten, she was a tyrant, running around the penthouse at night, meowing, scratching everything.

It got to the point where they had to lock her out of their bedroom if they wanted to get some decent sleep. She’s since outgrown her feisty kitten stages and has settled into the moody teenage years where she hates everyone for no apparent reason.

She only gives him a blank stare before padding over to Soarynn’s side of the bed where she’s bound to get loads of affection despite how late it is.

Sure enough, the moment her little pink nose touches Soarynn’s arm, she’s miraculously waking up. Coriolanus sits up, accepting his fate of not getting any good sleep tonight and simply settles for watching Soarynn wake up as well.

She yawns first, gently pushing Petunia away only for her to come right back, nuzzling her face. Soarynn giggles and takes a hold of Petunia, keeping her still, “Petunia it’s still nighttime,” she tells the cat.

Coriolanus grunts, arms crossed, “It certainly is.”

Soarynn rolls onto her back and holds Petunia tight against her chest, all while Petunia gives Coriolanus a smug look over her small victory. He scoffs, that diva can’t go one hour without Soarynn’s attention.

There had been that time when Soarynn went on a small trip with some of her friends and both Coriolanus and Petunia almost killed themselves in her absence.

Not that he enjoys being apart from Soarynn but at least he doesn’t start screaming about it in the middle of the night.

Soarynn finally opens her eyes and they immediately land on Coriolanus who does his best to look very inconvenienced by this whole thing, “What did you do to her Coryo?”

He might throw a fit.

He gives her a sharp look, “What did I do? She woke me up! She was crying for no reason!”

Soarynn frowns and looks back at Petunia who’s now licking her paw, acting like a perfect angel, “Petunia would never do such a thing, isn’t that right my darling?”

Petunia meows at Soarynn and then turns to look at Coriolanus, flattening her ears down and hissing.

Coriolanus points at her, “See?! She taunts me morning, noon, and now, night!”

Soarynn slowly sits up next to him, careful not to disturb Petunia, heaven forbid, and places a hand on his arm, “You two need to learn how to coexist,” she tells him.

Coriolanus raises his eyebrows because he’ll be damned if he’s the one who gets lectured. “Might I remind you that this is my house? And she is it’s newest inhabitant?”

Soarynn merely rolls her eyes in response and swings her legs over her side of the bed, “You’re so dramatic Coryo. She’s probably just thirsty. I’ll go get her some water and you can try to fall back asleep alright?”

Coriolanus keeps his stare focused on the evil cat who watches him while resting her head on Soarynn’s shoulder, smug as can be.

He watches Soarynn slowly pad over to their bedrooms doors and open them, disappearing into the hallway. She’s only gone for about five seconds before he hears a loud gasp and the sound of her footsteps running back towards their bedroom.

He sits up straighter when hearing her run.

Is there a bug? An intruder?

“Coryo! Coryo it’s snowing! It’s the first snow of the year!”

Soarynn runs back into their room and he’s pleased to note that Petunia has been put down on the floor. Soarynn runs over to the window on her side of the bed and rips the curtains open, letting the moonlight shine into their bedroom. Coriolanus yawns and slides back into bed, “That’s nice darling.”

It usually snows around the holidays but Soarynn always gets so exited when it finally does, she always wants to run outside and catch snowflakes on her tongue. They can do that tomorrow.

“I’m gonna go outside right now!”

His eyes were just drifting shut but they’re wide open now. He sits back up just in time to see Soarynn running back out of their room, this time in the opposite direction of the kitchen. Surely she won’t actually go outside this late into the night.

The sound of the front doors opening and closing quickly prove him wrong.

“This girl is going to be the death of me,” he mutters, getting out of bed with haste. Coriolanus prides himself in always looking presentable in public but this is no time for a fashion show.

He grabs his robe and puts on his slippers before grabbing a sweater from his side of the closet for Soarynn. He rushes out of their bedroom and nearly trips on Petunia who just has to be in the way all the time.

She lets out a loud meow but he ignores her and shuffles down the hallway. Soarynn’s coat is still in the coat closet so she really did run out there with no care at all.

Coriolanus wonders what that must be like as he repeatedly presses the elevator button, what it must be like to not have to worry about anything because she knows that he’ll take care of it. He’s shot him self in the foot if he’s being completely honest. He’s always insisted that she never do anything difficult and now it’s bitten him in the ass.

The elevator finally arrives and he all but punches the button to take him to the lobby. It’s almost comical how he’s forced to listen to elevator music while impatiently tapping his foot.

He finally arrives on the ground floor and is relieved to see that the lobby of his apartment building is empty. There is of course, the doorman but other than that, no one else is here. He strides past the Christmas tree they put up a few days ago and gives the doorman a curt nod as if he’s not in his pajama pants, robe and slippers.

If Soarynn isn’t going to be the death of him then she’ll certainly be the death of his reputation.

He walks outside onto the cold streets to see Soarynn frolicking in the snow. He must admit, she looks adorable spinning around in the snow. And he’s glad to see that she’s atleast wearing slippers.

“Darling,” he calls, “darling come back, let’s go back inside and go to bed.”

Soarynn giggles while the snow continues to fall around her, covering the Corso in a white blanket. He nervously looks for cars but sees none. “Soarynn,” he calls again, really not wanting to leave the sidewalk, “you’ll catch your death if you stay out here.”

But Soarynn pays him no mind and continues running around, her arms held out like she’s a little bird about to take flight.

Coriolanus sighs, women never make anything easy. He trudges out onto the street and grabs Soarynn before she can slip away, wrapping his arms around her, “I think we’ve played in the snow enough for tonight,” he says, trying to pick her up but Soarynn wiggles out of his grip. “No! No, we just got here,” she says, shaking her head, “we should play a game.”

He can feel his eye twitching, “Alright. Let’s play ‘go back upstairs and get into bed’. One, two, three, go!”

Soarynn rolls her eyes, “Coryo,” she whines.

Coriolanus pinches the bridge of his nose, no more patience exists in his body, “Darling, please come inside. I’m tired, you’re tired, we’re all tired.”

Soarynn pouts and he can feel himself giving in, giving into those adorable eyes and that pretty face. She’s got him wrapped around her finger and she knows it too.

He sighs, accepting defeat, “At least put on this sweater I brought for you.”

Soarynn squeals in delight from getting her way and throws her arms around him, “Thank you! We should write our names in the snow!”

Coriolanus is more focused on getting the sweater over her head but he nods along to her suggestion, “We can do that,” he agrees.

Once Soarynn is more clothed to his liking, he helps her write out their names in the snow.

“You write your name and I’ll write mine,” she tells him, very focused on the task at hand. She looks so adorable while she does it with her nose slightly scrunched which means she’s really focused.

Coriolanus smiles to himself and starts writing out his own name.

‘Coriolanus Snow’ looks very impressive in the snow he must admit.

He looks over at Soarynn’s name and his heart skips a beat.

‘Soarynn Snow’ is written and she looks so proud of herself, “I know we’re not married yet but it looks so perfect,” she says dreamily.

Coriolanus grins and stands back up, watching as she draws hearts around her name. He stands behind her, keeping her safe from any harm that might come her way while she has fun. She tilts her head back and giggles when she sees him watching her, “Hi,” she says sweetly.

Coriolanus chuckles, “Hello my sweet girl.”

He still can’t believe he’s going to marry this girl. She’s so sweet, so beautiful and kind. She’s one in a million.

Soarynn pops back onto her feet and nearly slips in the snow but Coriolanus is quick to catch her. With his arms wrapped around her waist and their faces inches apart, he can’t help but lean in to kiss her.

Even in the bitter cold, her lips are still soft and gentle. Soarynn sighs into the kiss, letting him take the lead as he so often does and when they finally pull apart, her eyes are sparkling.

She breaks away from his gaze and looks up at their apartment building, a grin grows across her lips, “I think I can see Petunia.”

Coriolanus turns to look all the way up at the twelfth floor and sure enough, he can see a tiny white ball of fluff staring down at them through one of the windows. They both laugh at the sight, she looks so tiny up there.

“We should go back in before she breaks through the window,” Soarynn says, shaking her head.

Coriolanus hums, keeping his arm wrapped around her waist as they walk back into the building.

If facing the cold means more moments like that with Soarynn, then he’s happy to let it snow for the rest of their lives.

| tumblr oneshot/drabble |

[slaymitchabernathy]

Darling, it's cold outside.

The cold, bitter air bites at Coriolanus as he steps out of his office building onto the busy Capitol street.

He adjusts his grip on his briefcase and shoves his other gloved hand into the pocket of his coat, there’s no need to lose more fingers than necessary. He keeps his gaze forward as he starts towards his car, a million thoughts running through his mind.

Some are about work, how well he’s doing, if he’ll get that promotion he's been gunning for all year. It gets so tricky around the holidays, no one really wants to focus on work when they could be spending time with family.

But Coriolanus has no family.

Which makes him the perfect candidate to work a little later than everyone else since he much prefers the peace and quiet over the loud chatter. He would’ve worked even later if he didn’t have a date tonight.

A date with Livia Cardew.

Coriolanus is a single man but it isn’t for a lack of trying. He’s attempted to go on a few dates here and there, squeezing them into his busy schedule but nothing has ever stuck, ever clicked. The women he goes on these dates with are more than just conquests to him, he wants the real thing, someone to start a family with him and share his vision.

He has yet to find someone in the Capitol to do that with.

So he keeps trying. This will be his third date with Livia and he’s hoping that the third time is the charm.

It’s probably not.

He slides into the backseat of his car with a heavy sigh, today was so tiring he wishes he could just go home and go to bed. But Livia would be furious and he’s not one to stand up a lady on a date. And she knows where he lives.

“The Grand Oak please,” he says to his driver, pulling a box of cigarettes out of his briefcase, he needs a smoke every once in a while and it’s somewhat frowned upon by all the ladies who work at the office. They always complain about the smell, about how it clings to clothing, Coriolanus and Festus often brave the cold just for a few sacred minutes with a cigarette.

He stares out the window at the passing Capitol streets, admiring how beautiful the city is this time of year with all the holiday lights and displays. He hopes Livia won't be too nagging tonight, all she did last time was complain about her job, and while Coriolanus can easily sympathize with anyone about working, he certainly won't whine about it over dinner.

Tonight will be great.

It has to be great.

꧁ ꧂

Tonight was terrible.

Coriolanus trudges down the sidewalk, cigarette in hand while he blows into the cold air. Livia managed to get on every one of his nerves tonight, whining about shopping for the holidays and then giving him flack for his lack of enthusiasm over their date.

Needless to say, this was their last date.

He stops at the corner and watches other people cross the busy streets, hand in hand with one another. If they found love so easily then surely he can do the same. He watches one woman cross the street, a handbag hangs from her shoulder while she briskly walks towards a small cafe. There's something about her, something so familiar about the way she walks, how she carries herself, how she smiles at the man who holds the door open for her.

Then it hits him.

It's Soarynn. Soarynn Nightingale, his ex-girlfriend from the Academy.

Coriolanus doesn't realize that his feet are moving until he's already across the street, making his way to the bustling cafe. He peers through the window, doing his best not to look creepy as he looks for Soarynn. He sees her at the counter, ordering a coffee no less. He hasn't seen her in years, not since they broke up and went their separate ways.

Has fate led him here? Should he go in and say hello?

Coriolanus prides himself on following his head rather than his heart but his heart seems to be taking over right now because he's pulling the cafe door open before he can stop himself. He throws his cigarette into the ashtray and scans the crowded cafe, the smell of coffee and pastries is overwhelming. He spots Soarynn walking down the counter towards an empty table, done placing her order.

He's got to time this right.

He briskly walks over to the counter where a chipper staff member greets him with a smile, "What can I get for you, sir?" He's unable to tear his gaze away from the blonde-haired woman who's sitting alone in the corner of the cafe, "Um, a coffee please, black."

He doesn't care how much it costs, he doesn't even care how it tastes.

He shoves several bills across the counter, mumbling for them to keep the change. He doesn't know what Soarynn ordered but this all has to be timed perfectly or this will all be for nothing and he'll be stuck with a black, soulless coffee.

He watches a staff member mix together a drink before lifting it up to read the name scrawled on the side of the cup, "Soarynn?"

His heart starts racing, maybe he timed it too late or too early. He watches Soarynn slowly get up from her chair and just when all hope is lost, "Coriolanus?"

He takes his time walking to the end of the counter, watching from the corner of his eye as Soarynn looks at his cup of coffee, a look of realization crosses over her face and she looks up at him, "Coriolanus Snow?"

He feigns a look of shock, "Soarynn? I can't believe this, I haven't seen you in years! What're the odds?" Soarynn smiles and shrugs, "Looks like this city isn't big enough for both of us." Coriolanus laughs and watches her bring her cup to her lips, taking a sip before scrunching her nose, "Could I get some sugar please?" She asks sweetly, taking off the lid, "Still overdoing it with the sugar huh?" He teases, grinning when she shoots him a look.

"Everyone needs some sweetness in their life," she counters back, thanking the staff member when they hand her some sugar packets. "How are you? It's been ages since we last saw each other."

Coriolanus nods, leaning against the counter, "Good, I'm good. Busy with work. What about you?"

Soarynn sighs, gazing up at him the way she used to when they were dating, "I'm good too. Busy pulling everything together for this season's line."

"Ah, that's right, you're a big fashion designer now."

Soarynn blushes and shakes her head, "Hardly. And what about you? I heard that you're working at one of the biggest firms in the Capitol, that must be so exciting for you."

Not in the way she'd think but Coriolanus nods, "It is, I'm very happy with how everything's gone for me this year. Were you just getting off of work?"

Soarynn looks back at her table in the corner, a large binder sits across it, "Yes, I've been working a bit later than usual. What about you? Same story?"

Horrible images of his very recent date with Livia flash through his eyes and he quickly presses a smile to his lips, "Yep, burning the midnight oil." Soarynn shifts on her feet, her eyes scanning him up and down, "Well...are you in a rush to get home?"

Coriolanus retrains himself from jumping with joy as he settles for a causal head shake, "Not at all, I just needed something to warm me up." Soarynn wraps her fingers around her own cup, "Me too, I hate the cold."

He chuckles, she's always preferred summer over winter, "It's not that bad."

"Would you like to sit?" She points over at her table, "I know it's so last minute but I haven't seen you since..." Her words die off as she remembers their bitter ending and Coriolanus clears his throat, "Yeah...but I'd love to catch up."

He follows Soarynn over to her table and he can't help but look at her sketches scrawled across the pages. The designs are stunning and so in tune with who she is as a person, "These are beautiful," he tells her, finding no lies in his words. Soarynn closes the binder shut, her face flushed, "They're just sketches for spring."

Coriolanus tilts his head, "But it's winter right now."

An amused look grows on her face as if she knows something he doesn't, "Which is why we're working ahead so by the time spring gets here we're not behind." Coriolanus is bewildered by her way of thinking. In his line of business, he's always been told to focus on what's right in front of him.

"Fashion seems terribly complicated," he says before taking a sip of his coffee, it's not half bad either. Soarynn hums and tucks her binder away in her leather bag, "It's all about trends. All of my designs in the stores right now were created this summer. It requires a very forward way of thinking."

Coriolanus doesn't spend a lot of time shopping but whenever he's passing by the fanciest shops, he always sees her designs in the front windows. "Well you've done amazing for yourself, I see your designs everywhere."

"That's very kind of you," she murmurs, "and the credit can't all go to me, I have an amazing team and amazing partners. Clemmie and Persephone deserve as much credit as I do."

Coriolanus raises his eyebrows, he's always known Soarynn to be kind but he's forgotten how humble she is, "You're still friends with Clemmie and Persephone?"

Soarynn hums sipping her own drink, "Mhm. We all went to fashion school together, graduated the same year you did if I recall. Then we got hired by our current fashion house, it's run exclusively by women."

Coriolanus grins, it's a stark contrast to his firm that's run by men, "That must be interesting, do you all fight over shoes and handbags?" Soarynn rolls her eyes at his teasing and sits back in her chair, "Hardly. We all have such different and distinct senses of style, that's what makes our designs so unique. There's something for everyone."

Coriolanus has never paid too much attention too much attention to fashion, not when the color black is always in style but Soarynn has always had impeccable taste. Classy yet trendy, stylish yet elegant. He takes a moment to truly admire the young woman she's become. Her hair is still blonde as ever but she's gotten it cut in layers to frame her face in a very flattering manner.

Her eyes are still startling, blue and gray. Her complexion is flawless, a bit of blush dots her cheeks but her freckles stand out like stars in the night sky. She's still so beautiful.

"You...you look good," he tells her, watching her eyes slightly grow bigger at his compliment, "you've always looked good but now you're all grown up."

Soarynn shly smiles across the table at him, "Well you still look handsome as ever Coryo."

Coryo. He hasn't heard that name since they ended things. It was a nickname exclusively reserved for Soarynn, the one girl who's really gotten to know his heart. He does his best to mask his giddiness, "Thank you. I like to think I'll look like my father before I know it."

Soarynn scans his face, making him feel a bit self-conscious but Soarynn doesn't have a malicious bone in her body, she'd never put others down. "I do remember seeing your father's picture in the yearbook, he looked very handsome." Coriolanus breaks into a teasing grin, "What're you saying? That my father is better looking than me?"

Soarynn laughs, brushing her hair behind her ears, "Hardly! I'm just saying that good looks run in the Snow family." Well, that makes him feel better. He's not balding or attempting to grow a beard like other men his age so he hopes that the odds are in his favor when it comes to physical appearance.

"But what about you? How has it been with work?" She asks, giving him her full undivided attention which means a lot after dealing with Livia who only wants to talk about herself. He scratches the back of her neck, "It's um, it's good. It's a lot sometimes," he admits, "but it's challenging and I enjoy a challenge. Felix and Festus work there as well so it's nice to see a familiar face and my other colleagues are pleasant enough."

Soarynn leans forward, resting her forearms on the table, "But?"

How is it that after all these years she's still able to pick up on him holding back from her?

He rubs his temples, "I have everything I've ever wanted and no one to share it with." Soarynn's face softens and her eyes hold shared emotion, "I get that," she says softly, "it's not easy coming home to an empty house every night."

Coriolanus unintentionally eyes her left hand, her ring finger to be precise and it's empty. Soarynn Nightingale, by some miracle, has not been swooped up yet. Which is hard to believe, she's stunning, kind, funny, and smart. She's a catch.

"Do you date?" He asks, praying that she's sworn off men since they ended things but to his chagrin, Soarynn slowly nods, "Sometimes," she mumbles, playing with her fingers, "it's hard with work and friends. And no offense, but all of you men are the same right now, so serious and closed off. It's hard to connect when no one wants to be vulnerable."

He bites the inside of his cheek, he'd be lying if he said that he wasn't thrilled to hear that she's single and on the market. But they already had a relationship, a long one with a painful ending if he remembers correctly and neither of them want to go through that again. That's why they never kept in touch.

It's easier to get over someone if you just pretend that they don't exist.

"Dating is a bit tricky," he agrees, thinking back to the murderous look Livia gave him when he told her this was their last date, "but I like to think that it means that you're just one more heartbreak away from finding your true love."

Soarynn doesn't look too convinced but she offers him a small smile, "I already got my heart broken," she reminds him and they both look away, trying to forget what they had with one another.

"Excuse me, we'll be closing in ten minutes." The staff member's voice jolts them both out of their little bubble and Coriolanus looks around to cafe to find it empty. They're the last ones in here and he's barely sipped his coffee. Soarynn grabs her bag, "I should go."

Coriolanus quickly stands up, pushing in his chair, "Let me take you home."

She looks up at him with hesitation, he can see it in her eyes, should she trust him?

He nods out the window where his driver has parked the car, idly waiting for him, "I insist, I can't in good consciousness let you walk on the streets by yourself this late at night."

He really just wants to spend more time with her but at least he looks very chivalrous right now. Soarynn debates the offer, walk home in the cold, dark night, or get driven for free.

"Alright," she finally agrees, "that's very kind of you."

Coriolanus smiles and leads the way out of the cafe, holding the door open for her like the gentleman he is, "You must be very important if you have your own car," she muses, sliding into the backseat. Coriolanus slides in after her, closing the door behind him, "Something like that," he agrees, nodding at his driver, "Cornelia Street please."

Soarynn gives him an impressed look, "You remembered."

"Remembered what?"

"Where I live."

Coriolanus almost laughs, how could he forget the one street he subconsciously avoids in fear of running into the one girl who knew his heart?

"I have a good memory," is all he says in reply.

They're both quiet for the rest of the ride, soaking in the silence and each other's presence. Coriolanus can't help but think that this might all be fate, having a terrible date only to run into Soarynn moments later.

It's a Christmas miracle is what it is.

The car turns down the familiar street and a million memories flash through his mind of all the time he spent on this street, spent walking on this street because he didn't have a fancy car or driver when he was at the Academy. And she still loved him, despite his social status or financial status, Soarynn loved him for who he was.

The car slows to a stop in front of the Nightingale townhouse, a sight Coriolanus swore he'd never see again. He opens the door, closing his eyes when the cold air washes over him, it'll probably start snowing soon and the Capitol streets will look like a white blanket.

He turns to help Soarynn out of the car, extending a hand and he sees the look of surprise on her face but she recovers smoothly and places her small hand in his large one as she steps out of the car. She looks so graceful while doing the simplest tasks. "Thank you," she says.

He grunts and follows her down the pathway that leads to the front door. A pretty wreath with a red bow hangs on the door and Soarynn fumbles around her bag, searching for her key. "Never thought I'd be on your front door step again," he admits, hoping he's not digging up old graves that they've already put to rest.

Soarynn lets out a breathy laugh and pulls out her key, "Me neither," she says, unlocking the door. She pushes it open and the smell of vanilla completely overwhelms him, it feels like coming home to a place that's no longer his. He peers into the house, everything still looks about the same but he's sure she's made some changes over the past six years.

Soarynn goes to step inside but she hesitates, wrapping her fingers around the door handle, "Would you...would you like to come in for a drink?"

Coriolanus looks down at his watch, it's eleven o'clock but he has all the time in the world for Soarynn Nightingale. "I'd love to."

He follows her into her home and can see that she's decorated for Christmas by wrapping the grand staircase's banister with green garlands and he can see a small Christmas tree in the living room.

"You're here all by yourself still?" He asks, hanging his coat by the door. He figured she'd hire some household staff, maybe get a fish or something. "Not exactly," Soarynn says, leaning against the staircase banister, "I got a cat."

Coriolanus raises his eyebrows because, from the day he met Soarynn, she's always wanted a cat. "And where is this cat?" He looks around for any signs of a feline residing in the home but finds none. Maybe she has a quiet, shy cat who doesn't bother anyone.

Soarynn starts making her way to the kitchen and he's right on her heels, reminiscing all the time he spent in the Nightingale townhouse, "She's around here somewhere," she says over her shoulder, "she likes to hide until she's studied you."

Oh wonderful, she got a cat who thinks it's a leopard.

The kitchen is exactly as he remembers it, beautifully crafted with lots of personal touches such as photographs and kitchenware passed down from family members. "Do you want wine or something else?" She asks, digging around one of the cupboards.

Coriolanus stops by the fridge, gently touching a photo of Soarynn and her late father Glen Nightingale. He'd recognize this photo anywhere because it was plastered onto the invitation he received for Glen's funeral. Coriolanus and every elite member of Capitol society attended although he remained hidden in the back of the crowd, the last thing he wanted was to make Soarynn's day worse.

When he looks back over at her, she's already looking at him, a sad smile on her lips, "I think my father has some bourbon in his collection if you'd prefer that." Coriolanus quickly shakes his head, shoving his hands into the pockets of his pants, "Oh no, please don't trouble yourself, wine is great."

She hums although she doesn't look like she believes him, "It's almost been four years and yet sometimes I come home and expect him to be in his study." Coriolanus shifts on his feet, he's no stranger to losing a parent, not when both of his died during the war but Soarynn adored her father. It's a shame that something like heart failure had to take him away from her.

"I never sent a card," he says, chiding himself for being so negligent, "I should've sent a card when he died, should've done something."

Soarynn crosses the room and gently grabs his arm, "Coryo, it's fine. Please don't beat yourself up over that, it was years ago and I know you came to the funeral. Everyone processes grief differently." He's having a hard time accepting that his not sending a card is okay because it's not. Glen was like a father figure to him and he couldn't even comfort his daughter when she needed it the most.

"You were all alone," he murmurs, looking down into her startling eyes, "I know we weren't speaking but still, I could've sent a card."

Soarynn gives his arm a squeeze and her eyes sparkle a little bit, "You can always send me a Christmas card."

They both break into a grin from her joke and suddenly, things don't feel so bad.

꧁ ꧂

Coriolanus has forgotten how wonderful it is to be in Soarynn's presence.

And he's never seen her tipsy but it's a sight to see. She shrieks with laughter as they remember the time when he and Festus ran through the Academy halls in only their underwear after Didi Ring dared them to do it. "I still can't believe no one caught you!" She laughs, leaning back into the sofa. Coriolanus chuckles and proudly shrugs, "Only those who had the privilege of witnessing our greatness can look back on it and say they were there to see it."

Soarynn finishes off her wine, setting the glass on the coffee table, "You were always so confident, I remember admiring that about you a lot." Coriolanus tilts his head, Soarynn has definitely become more comfortable in her own skin but she's never been as outgoing as he is.

"Well, you're confident now," he points out, "you've got your own clothing line catering to the richest women in Panem."

Soarynn wags a finger at him like he said something wrong, "I cater to all the women in Panem," she corrects, a proud look on her face, "my designs range from high-end to affordable for everyone who wants to feel put together. It's important to make everyone feel included."

Coriolanus is stunned, he wasn't aware that her designs could be accessed by the lower class but it seems like something Soarynn would do with that righteous heart of hers. She's always thought about others.

"Well there you go then," he nods, "I have my confidence and you have your generosity."

Soarynn smiles, "We'd make quite the pair."

The comfortable feeling between them quickly dissipates from those words. They did make quite the pair until they didn't anymore and he was storming out of her house, swearing to never see or think of her again. Looks like he lied.

"You know, I kind of forgot about how things ended between us," he says, resting his elbow on the armrest of his chair, "I mean I just don't remember what was said before we split."

Soarynn raises her eyebrows, sitting up straight and he knows he's in for an earful, "Oh so you don't remember our last fight?"

He offers her a charming smile but she waves him off, not falling for his tricks, "We both wanted different things," she says with a sigh, "you always knew what you wanted and you wanted it before you could even handle it. I wanted to take life slowly, work on fashion, work on us but you...you've just always wanted everything and I thought that I was your everything."

Coriolanus is starting to remember their last days together, remember the fights, the stress, the tears. "I've always felt the need to prove myself, and I've always had a lot of pride," he admits, more to himself than to her, "and I let that get in the way of a lot of things, including you."

Coriolanus has a lot of regrets but Soarynn has always been on the top of his list.

"We both went down different paths," Soarynn tells him softly, reaching over to place her hand on his forearm, "but we both got what we wanted in the end. You got the job you always wanted, the money, the penthouse, the clothes, the car. And I got what I always wanted. Sometimes people have to go separate ways to get what they want."

Coriolanus stares down at her hand so casually resting on his forearm, only his white button-up shirt separates them and he's starting to remember all the times they spent together without clothes.

"And what happens when those people grow up and run into each other one night at a cafe?" He asks with a shakiness in his voice that he's not used to.

Soarynn swallows, turning pink in the dim lighting, "Well I haven't gotten that far yet."

Before either of them can say anything else, a white ball of fluff jumps onto the sofa next to Soarynn and Coriolanus nearly falls out of his chair, "Oh, Petunia! There you are darling. Coryo, this is my cat, Petunia." Soarynn grabs the white fluffy cat who immediately melts in her hold, purring intensely.

Coriolanus composes himself and slowly reaches out for her to smell his hand, "So this is the cat. I thought she'd never show."

Petunia looks over at him and meows, sniffing his hand for only a second before deeming him not important. What amazes him the most is how Petunia's eyes are the same color as Soarynn's, blue and gray.

"She looks just like you," he blurts out, "in a good way," he adds when he sees the face Soarynn is making. She looks at Petunia for a moment, squinting her eyes, "I suppose we have some similarities," she agrees.

Coriolanus looks over at the grandfather clock that's been in this living room since he can remember and it's almost two o'clock in the morning!

"I should go," he says, "I have a fitting for some new suits at twelve tomorrow."

Soarynn nods and sets a protesting Petunia down, "Let me walk you out."

They both shuffle out of the living room and Petunia follows them to the front door, curious about this new large human in her house. "I had a really nice time tonight," Soarynn tells him while he puts on his coat, "it was really nice seeing you again Coryo."

Coriolanus looks down at her and thinks of a time when she'd have her arms wrapped around his neck when he'd leave, begging him not to leave. She still looks beautiful though.

"I had a nice time too. I'm glad we ran into each other."

Soarynn smiles and Coriolanus just has to see her again. But how?

The holidays are so busy and they both have work and...the holiday work party!

"Would you like to go to a party with me?" He blurts out before he can stop himself. Soarynn looks surprised but not put off by the invitation, "A party?"

Coriolanus rests his hand on the door handle but makes no move to open it, "Yes, my firm is throwing a party for all its employees and we're allowed to bring plus ones. And I as we have established, lack a plus one."

Soarynn grins, looking him up and down, "That's hard to believe. When is it?"

"The twenty-first."

With his luck, she's busy on that night only.

"Alright," she says, leaning forward on her heels, "it would be an honor to accompany you to such an important event. What's the dress code?"

Truth be told, he barely glanced at the invitation, only noting the date to put on his calendar, "I'll let you know," he answers, "but maybe wear something red." She's always looked good in red.

"I'll scour my closet for a red dress," she promises.

They both stand there for a second, on the cusp of something that once was and maybe what could be if they play their cards right.

"Good night Soarynn."

Without any warning, she presses herself to her tiptoes and kisses his cheek, just like she used to when they'd go to separate classes, "Good night Coryo."

He's never washing this cheek again.

He manages to open the door and get down the two steps without making an absolute fool of himself, waving goodbye once more before slipping into his car. He brings his hand up to where her lips just were, perhaps this is a Christmas miracle.

He won't be a fool this time and take it for granted.

꧁ ꧂

“It’s ice skating,” Festus says, lingering in the doorway to the office that belongs to Coriolanus, "you know, a fun wintery activity. You do remember how to have fun, right Snow?"

Coriolanus rolls his eyes, doing his best to ignore Festus and his persistent nagging, "I do have fun Festus," he sighs, "I also have work to do and no one to take with me." Festus strolls into the office and plops down in the armchair that sits across the desk, "Just fly solo. It'll just be me and Felix."

Coriolanus raises an eyebrow, "And your girlfriends," he adds, shaking his head when Festus grins, "I'd rather not be a fifth wheel again."

Festus leans back in the chair, almost toppling over, "Isn't there someone you can invite? I know you and Livia are done dating but..."

"Absolutely not," Coriolanus says before Festus can get any further, "I don't want to literally be skating on thin ice with Livia Cardew, thank you very much."

Festus attempts to pout but that shit only works on his girlfriend Persephone, "Please? We'll have much more fun if you come."

Coriolanus sighs, pinching the bridge of his nose, there is someone he could invite but he's not sure if telling Festus about it is a good idea. Festus has a tendency to tell Persephone everything and Persephone has a tendency to blab about it to everyone.

"I could call Soarynn," Coriolanus finally says, wisely ignoring the surprised look Festus gives him, "but it's terribly last minute."

Festus leans forward in his chair, hooked on this developing story, "I'm sorry, did you say Soarynn? As in Soarynn Nightingale, the girl who you swore to never talk about again as long as you li-"

"Yes," Coriolanus cuts him off, "the only Soarynn in the entire world, yes her. We ran into each other the other night and we...we reconnected."

Festus wiggles his eyebrows in a suggestive manner, "Reconnected or reconnected?"

Coriolanus scoffs, Festus is unbelievable, "We talked you fool. We had a decent, adult conversation and she's agreed to be my date for the holiday work party so you'd better be on your best behavior."

He doesn't mention how he called Soarynn last night to tell her about the party dress code and how they ended up talking for another hour and a half while Soarynn did laundry and Coriolanus finished up some work in his study. No, Festus doesn't need to know about that.

It had reminded him of when they dated and would spend hours on the phone as if they didn't spend hours together in person.

"She's probably busy tonight," he mumbles with a dismissive shrug.

Festus jumps out of his chair and slams his hands on the desk, "Well call her and find out!"

Coriolanus jumps at the sudden outburst but he can see how thrilling of a prospect this is to Festus who's been pushing Coriolanus to get out there more with the ladies. He pushed him right into Livia Cardew and they saw how that turned out.

Coriolanus eyes the telephone sitting on his desk. It wouldn't hurt to call. "You'll wait out in the hallway like a civilized person," he instructs Festus while picking up the phone.

Festus grins with glee and practically skips out into the hall.

Well, now he actually has to call her.

Coriolanus stares up at the ceiling for a second, hoping he's not going to ruin this, whatever this is before dialing the number to Soarynn's office building. She works a few blocks down from his building but the fashion house takes up the entire first three floors.

The phone rings for what feels like far too long before someone picks up, "Tigris' House of Fashion, how may I assist you?" The chipper voice of the secretary doesn't help calm his nerves, "Hello, I was hoping to speak with Soarynn Nightingale."

"May I ask who's calling?"

Coriolanus looks over his shoulder and sees Festus peeking his head into the study, "It's uh, it's Coriolanus Snow," he says while grabbing a stapler to throw at Festus, "I only need to inquire about a certain date."

"One moment please."

Coriolanus launches his stapler but Festus dodges it with a grin, "Coryo?"

Suddenly the phone has his undivided attention.

"Soarynn? Hi, so sorry to bother you at work but I was calling to see if you're free tonight."

The line is so silent that he's worried she already hung up, "Tonight? What's tonight?" He can hear muffled voices in the background, female voices, "Ice skating," he tells her, "I got invited by Festus and Felix who are taking Persephone and Clemmie and I thought you might want to come with me. As friends."

He mentally punches himself after saying that. As friends? What else would they go as?!

He hears Festus snickering from outside and decides to start locking his office door from now on, "Oh, that sounds like fun! Clemmie mentioned ice skating earlier, I should be able to come."

Coriolanus grins, wrapping the phone cord around his thumb, "That's great, we'll see you girls there."

"Wonderful, see you tonight."

Coriolanus triumphantly hangs up the phone, courage and adrenaline rushing through his veins. "You look happy," Festus remarks, stepping back into the office, stapler in hand, "I take it she's coming tonight?"

Coriolanus laces his fingers together and stretches out his arms, "She is."

Festus playfully jostles his shoulder, clearly excited about the prospect of Coriolanus and Soarynn getting back together which would be the most logical explanation as to why they're tagging along with their friends but it's not. And they're not going to get back together because they're both rational adults who can act on logic rather than feelings.

Simple as that.

꧁ ꧂

Wrapped in their winter coats, Coriolanus, Festus, and Felix make their way towards the City Centre. The Centre is the heart of the Capitol, where everyone comes together to celebrate all sorts of holiday events. They host other things like concerts and charity events, but they always go all out for Christmas. Right now, there's a beautifully decorated tree, at least three stories high, and the infamous ice skating rink.

Coriolanus hasn't partaken in a lot of ice skating in his life, mostly because he sees it as an easy way to make a fool of himself, fall on his ass and break his wrist.

But if Soarynn's going to be here then he might as well risk it for a little fun.

"There they are," Felix points at a trio of women, already decked out in their own winter outfits and skates, sitting on a bench by the rink with the tree behind them. Clemensia notices the boys first and breaks into a big grin, attempting to stand up but running in ice skates is more difficult than it looks. She teeters over to Felix who greets her with a kiss too sloppy for someone like Coriolanus who despises that level of public affection.

Persephone and Soarynn stay seated, letting the boys come to them and Festus already is cracking jokes, "Looks like we're about to break the ice!" He says, resting a hand on Persephone's shoulder. Both women roll their eyes and Persephone shakes her head, "You're lucky you're so cute," she tells Festus who grins in return. "I know," he replies.

The couple start talking about something Coriolanus could care less about and he turns his attention to Soarynn who looks beautiful tonight. Her hair is braided down her back with a few of the shorter pieces pulled out, framing her face. Her makeup is light, blush on her cheeks, and mascara showcasing her long lashes. She's wrapped up in a long cream-colored coat and he can see that her entire outfit is monochromatic, making for a stylish ensemble.

"Fancy seeing you so soon," she says, smiling up at him. Coriolanus can't help but smile back, he's glad he called her, "Well this city isn't big enough for both of us," he jokes. They both laugh and Persephone takes it as an opportunity to butt in, "So Coryo, it feels like we haven't seen you in ages and suddenly you're just popping back into Soarynn's life. What a coincidence."

She smiles up at him but he sees right through those pearly white teeth, Persephone never forgave him for breaking her best friend's heart, and even though it's been years since they broke up, she's never given him an inch more than she thinks he deserves.

Soarynn's smile falters and she gives Persephone a pleading look, "I think it's all in the timing," she says smoothly, letting her friend's words roll off her back. Coriolanus nods, doing his best to remain neutral, "Yes, it has been quite some time since we saw each other."

Persephone looks between him and Festus, tilting her head in a way that scares him, "Weren't you supposed to go on a date with Livia the other day? Or did those plans fall through?"

Coriolanus glares at Festus who nervously chuckles, "I think I'll go get my skates now, Persephone, come with me."

Coriolanus watches the couple walk over to the rental booth before looking back down at Soarynn who suddenly isn't so happy to see him. "You're dating Livia Cardew?" She asks, her voice is a gentle whisper yet it cuts deep into his heart. Coriolanus quickly sits down next to her on the bench, grabbing her gloved hand, "No, no, I would never date two women at once, believe me."

Her eyes reflect distrust, "Well I don't really know what to believe Coryo. Did you go on a date with Livia Cardew before running into me?"

He sighs, he knew the truth would come out but not this soon! "I did," he admits, right before we ran into each other at the cafe I had the worst date known to mankind with Livia and I told her it was the last date we'd have. I should've told you but I was just so excited to see you again, and I...I didn't want to ruin anything."

Although it hurts to see her like this, he's glad he told her the truth.

Soarynn looks down at their gloved hands, they fit together perfectly, "I'm not mad," she tells him, "I do wish you would've told me before I had to find out through a friend though."

She's got him there.

"From now on," he says, staring deeply into her gorgeous eyes, "I'll be completely honest with you, no matter what." Her lips curl up into a grin, "From now on hmm? You plan on seeing me more than usual?" Coriolanus feels himself blushing, he hadn't meant it like that, but maybe he did.

"I do," he smoothly answers, "I'd like to see you more if that's alright with you."

Soarynn chuckles softly, lacing her fingers with his, "I'd like that very much."

And just like that, sitting under the Christmas tree, Coriolanus felt as if he'd been given a second chance at love.

꧁ ꧂

"Persephone, catch me!" Festus cries before toppling over onto the ice. They all laugh as he sprawls out on the icy floor, dazed and confused.

Coriolanus carefully skates over to Festus, reaching out a hand, "Let's get you back up before some teenagers skate over you." Festus scoffs but takes his hand, "Please, I'm just getting the hang of it."

"Well you've been getting the hang of it for the past hour," Felix calls, expertly skating by with his arm linked with Clemensia's.

Coriolanus chuckles at Festus and his attempt to skate over to Persephone who isn't doing much better either. Birds of a feather it seems.

He looks back over at Soarynn who's clinging to the wall of the ice skating rink, holding on for dear life really. "You know, you won't learn if you don't put yourself out there," he says, skating over to her side. Soarynn lets out a nervous laugh, "Easy for you to say, you've always been good at everything." Coriolanus furrows his brows, he's not good at everything. At least not on the first try.

"Here," he says, holding out his hands, "trust me," he adds when she gives him a questionable look.

Soarynn hesitantly lets go of the wall and takes his hands, gasping when he starts to skate backward. As much as he avoids ice skating, he's actually quite good at it.

Soarynn holds onto him for dear life as he pulls them into the center of the rink which is much emptier than the outer edge. "Don't turn your feet inwards," he tells her, "bend your knees and push your feet out." Soarynn looks down at her skates and does as he says, pushing them three inches forward.

He smiles, "That's it, just like that."

Coriolanus lets her skate a little more before letting go of her hands, giving her an encouraging nod, "You got it."

He takes a moment to admire how beautiful Soarynn is. Under her coat he can see that she's worn a long-sleeved shirt with a collar that goes up to her chin, tucked into cream-colored pants that are perfectly tailored around her waist. She's so effortlessly elegant.

Soarynn ever so carefully skates towards him squealing when she glides over the ice, "I'm doing it!" Coriolanus grins and reaches his hand out, "Look at you, you're a natural." Soarynn grabs onto his hand and he pulls them out of the middle so they can get in some laps.

Soarynn doesn't let go of his hand while they skate in circles, talking about little, insignificant things. He looks around and watches other people skating, some are families, some are couples. To anyone else, they must look like a happy couple.

"Come on lovebirds! Let's go get something hot chocolate!" Clemensia shouts, already skating towards the exit.

"Hot chocolate does sound good," he mumbles, pulling them towards the exit. Soarynn giggles when they reach the gate and carefully steps onto the dry ground, "Oh, that was so much fun! I haven't been skating in years."

Coriolanus closes the gate behind him before turning back to her, "Me neither, although I can imagine it's not as fun when you're little."

They both watch a little girl bundled up with a coat, scarf, and hat skate by them, holding onto her father's leg, "It is rather sweet though," Soarynn says softly, "I can't wait to start a family of my own one day."

His heart beats a little faster when hearing those words leave her lips. He's always wanted to start a family of his own, to do things like this with his children.

"We should get our skates off," is all he says.

They manage to get over to a bench without falling over and he starts unlacing his skates while Soarynn looks around, admiring all the decorations. "This all used to feel much bigger when I was little," she mumbles, kicking her feet in the air, "I remember wanting to be a grown-up so badly."

Coriolanus laughs, he knows that feeling, "And now we are," he says, slipping off his skates. Soarynn goes to untie her laces but he swats her hand away, "Please," he says, giving her an offended look, "you won't be doing any of that if I'm around."

Soaryn raises her eyebrows in amusement, "What a gentleman," she purrs, letting him untie her laces for her. Coriolanus shrugs, trying to hide his grin, "It's the least I could do for a lady like you."

Soarynn hums while he unties the other skate, once he's got them off, he grabs both pairs, "I'll go take them back," he tells her. Soarynn nods and gives him a sweet smile, "I'll be here."

Coriolanus walks over to the rental booth and tries to dodge Festus but isn't successful, "Look at you two," Festus teases, playfully punching his shoulder, "you're acting like you've been married for ten years."

Coriolanus scoffs and sets the skates down on the counter, "You're being ridiculous," he tells Festus, nodding at the staff member who gives him their shoes back, "we're just getting to know each other again and your constant teasing isn't helping. Or Persephone's attempts to sabotage my changes," he gives Festus a knowing look.

"You know she only wants the best for Soarynn, I mean, you remember how heartbroken you both were right?" Painful memories flash in his mind, "Yes I do, and I'd rather not be reminded of them thank you very much. If Soarynn and I want to make this work, then we can't afford to have our friends nosing their way into our private business."

Festus holds his hands up in surrender, "Say no more. From now on, we're not even here." He mimics locking his lips with a key and Coriolanus shakes his head, "We'll see how long this lasts," he retorts, quite doubtful in their skills to mind their own business.

Still, he'll take all the help he can get.

꧁ ꧂

Giggles echo off of the Corso apartment buldings while Coriolanus and Soarynn stroll down ths street, arms linked together. "Who mixes bourbon with hot chocolate?" Soarynn asks with another laugh, throwing her head back.

Coriolanus grins, looking down at her, content to just admire her for the rest of their lives, "Festus Creed aparently," he replies, hoping that Festus made it home in one piece after becoming a bartender once they got their hot chocolate.

Soarynn shakes her head, brushing her hair out of her face, "Persephone's got her hands full with him, I don't know how she does it." Coriolanus finds that statment funny because Felix has said the same thing about Festus regarding Persephone, how full his hands must be with a girl like that.

Persephone Price is sharp and outspoken, never afraid to speak her mind. Coriolanus enjoys her company every now and then but only as friends. He can't imagine dating a girl like that.

Soarynn is much more suited to his taste. Quiet, polite, soft-spoken and considerate of other's feelings.

"They match each other quite well though," Soarynn points out, "they're both funny, outgoing, witty..."

"Annoying," he cuts in, "at times they can be very annoying."

Soarynn playfully swats at his arm, "Oh hush, none of us are perfect."

He raises an eyebrow, looking down at her with an amused look, "Oh, really? Because you're pretty damn close." Soarynn huffs, her cheeks turn pink as she shakes her head, "Hardly," she mumbles, "I have plenty of things I could work on."

"Like what?"

"Speaking up for myself for starters, I've always been quiet but that leads to people walking all over me, whether or not it's intentional is beside the point. And I could always work on getting out of my comfort zone."

She looks up at him with hesitation in her eyes, "I mean it's true! I never want to break out of my routine, even if it's necessary, you should've seen me when I first started working, I was a wreck."

Coriolanus finds it hard to imagine Soarynn being a wreck of any sorts but the way she talks about it tells him that it's been weighing her down for quite some time now.

"You're perfect to me," he tells her, pulling her closer to him, "even if you insist on walking home instead of being driven."

Soarynn breaks into another fit of giggles, pleased she got her way tonight, "Walking is good for you," she insists, "good for the heart and you have long legs."

Coriolanus looks down at his long legs and shakes his head, "That doesn't mean that I want to use them all the time," he points out.

Soarynn hums, resting her head on his arm, "Well thank you for walking me home and inviting me out tonight, I had a great time." They turn onto Cornelia Street, a familiar sight and Coriolanus admires all the Christmas lights that are strung along the townhouses. "You don't have any lights," he notices when they begin walking up to her house. Soarynn shrugs, "I don't have anyone to hang them up."

She doesn't have a man to hang them up but that might change if he's lucky.

They come to a stop at her front door, Soarynn standing on the second step while he stands on the sidewalk, "Will I see you again before the party?" She asks, reaching out to fix the collar of his coat. Coriolanus swallows, he'd love to see her again but he's going to be so busy with work and the reports that are due at the end of the year, "Probably not," he says glumly, "work is going get hectic."

Soarynn nods, he can see that she's disappointed but she still gives him an understanding smile, "It's okay, I'll see you on the twenty-first then."

"Yes, you will. I'll pick you up at six."

Soarynn leans down and presses a kiss to his cheek, "It's a date."

Coriolanus wears a boyish grin when she pulls away, "A date," he comfirms. He makes sure that she gets inside safely before walking back down the sidewalk.

Coriolanus Snow has got a pep in his step and it's all because of the girl on Cornelia Street.

| Part 1. |

| tumblr oneshot/drabble |

{ Part 2. }

| taglist: @strawberriicakes @wonderlandbound111 @villiansarehottest @thevoicesinmyprettylittlehead @kickmybark @melodyoflovee |

[slaymitchabernathy]

Naughty or Nice?

| "I'm talkin' deckin' all the halls, I'm talkin' spikin' eggnog. I'm talkin' opposite of small, I'm talkin' big snowballs. You got a new toy for me, I'm out here trimmin' the tree. I caught that holiday glee, my true love gave it to me." |

“Go to bed girls,” Coriolanus says once more, only his head pokes through the opening of the doors. He watches the girls giggle, doing their best to convince him that they’ll be on their best behavior but they probably won’t.

“If you don’t go to sleep then Santa won’t come and bring you presents.”

The girls gasp and shush each other making him grin. Lying about Santa isn’t the best thing to do but it’s earned him stellar behavior from all three of his children the past month.

The moment one of them was on the cusp of a tantrum, Coriolanus was threatening to tell Santa. Soarynn had chided him on it, claiming it wasn’t fair to hold it over their heads but he figured he only had ten years with each child before they started putting two and two together so he wouldn’t waste this precious momentum.

And the children were excellently behaved tonight. He took his family to the ballet with some good friends of theirs and then they ended the night at one of their favorite restaurants. The children ate all their food and used their best manners.

At twenty-six, Coriolanus Snow feels on top of the world. He’s doing great at work, has a beautiful home, and the perfect wife who's blessed him with three perfect, beautiful children.

Coriolanus closes the doors to his eldest daughter’s bedroom feeling very pleased with how his life has turned out so far.

His girls had begged to sleep in the same bed so they could wait for Santa and he eventually gave in after enough pouting.

He makes his way through the living room, admiring their beautiful tree. Soarynn decorated it beautifully with red garlands and golden accents along with shiny ornaments. Tons of presents sit under the tree, gifts for the family from the family.

He’ll have to slip the ones from Santa under the tree later tonight once the children are really asleep. Even if they were little tyrants tonight, there’s no way in hell he’d let any of those presents go to waste. He’s spent a small fortune on them, well, his wife spent a small fortune on them.

He was simply the one writing the check.

He walks into the kitchen and eyes the plate of cookies they left for Santa. They do look quite delicious and that glass of warm milk is calling his name.

He licks his lips, maybe a little late-night treat wouldn’t hurt. He’s just about the grab a cookie when his wife’s voice scares the shit out of him, “Coriolanus Snow.”

He jumps and turns around, giving her a sheepish smile while she stands under the doorway, hands on her hips, not looking too impressed with his behavior, “I was a bit peckish,” he explains.

Soarynn raises an eyebrow, “Those are for Santa,” she nods at the plate of decorated cookies, “not for you.”

Coriolanus rolls his eyes, certainly no one would’ve noticed if he ate one cookie. And he’s going to have to take a bite out of one before the children wake up so why not get a head start? “You don’t want to get a lump of coal in your stocking,” Soarynn tells him.

To Soarynn’s credit, they’ve had a wonderful holiday season. She’s made sure that they’ve done every activity under the sun from meeting Santa to going sledding. She’s not about to let him throw all her hard work down the drain, “Are the children asleep?” She asks, stepping into the kitchen. Coriolanus hums, eyeing the cookies one last time, “Yes darling, tucked into bed with sugarplums dancing above their heads or however the song goes.”

Soarynn smiles, but not her usual smile, no, this smile has sinister intentions behind it. “Good, because I have a gift for you.”

Oh, well that’s not sinister at all.

“Really? Well I’ll open it tomorrow morning darling,” he says, going to the cupboard to grab himself a wine glass, they might as well end the night watching a film while cuddling on the sofa.

“It’s for tonight.”

He looks over his shoulder at Soarynn who bats her eyelashes at him, “Come to our room in fifteen minutes,” she instructs. She leaves before he can ask any questions and his mouth suddenly feels very dry. Soarynn isn’t one for random surprises, no, she values routine above everything else.

He begins to think of the worst, perhaps she broke something and was waiting for a good time to tell him. Maybe she wants him to hang up another picture frame, it wouldn’t be the first time.

Or…or maybe she got another kitten.

Coriolanus suddenly feels lightheaded and grips the counter for support. His entire life is flashing before his eyes. Two cats are diabolical. He’ll have to put his foot down, simple as that. He’s the man of the house and he simply cannot tolerate two Petunias.

He might as well have that wine now. Heaven knows he’ll need it.

Fifteen minutes pass at an agonizing pace, too slow for him to handle but Soarynn won’t let him into their bedroom a minute earlier. He knows that much.

He glances up at the clock and sighs, it’s finally ten o’clock. Time to face his doom.

He finishes off his wine and sets the glass in the sink before trudging down the hallway to their bedroom. He’s so busy feeling sorry for himself that he doesn’t even notice the rose petals on the floor leading up to their bedroom. Only when he’s about to open the doors does he realize that her gift could be something very different.

He cautiously opens the doors, peeking his head in just in case and what he sees causes his jaw to go slack.

Soarynn. On the bed. Wearing red sheer tights with lingerie under the tights and a red bow wrapped around her waist. She’s wearing a gorgeous red lacy bralette as well and she looks like an absolute vision.

She’s sitting on her knees, wearing a proud smile when she sees his shocked expression.

“Come in darling,” she purrs, beckoning him in with the wave of her finger.

Like the lovesick fool he is, Coriolanus stumbles into the bedroom like he’s in a trance, shutting the doors behind him and swearing to treat this woman like the goddess she is for the rest of their lives.

“This is…this is something,” he finally says, stopping once he reaches the bed. Soarynn softly chuckles and pops up on her knees so that they’re almost at the same height, “I just wanted to give you an extra special gift, you know, for all you do for me.”

Coriolanus swallows when she goes to undo his tie, “All I…all I do for you?” He squeaks when she pulls the tie off him, “Mhm, all you do to take care of me,” she sweetly explains, undoing the buttons on his shirt next. “You take such good care of me Coryo and I just wanted to find a special way to thank you.”

Coriolanus decides right then and there that he’s the luckiest man alive.

And she looks so gorgeous. Her hair and makeup are the same from the ballet and dinner. Parted down the side with light yet perfect makeup to enhance her natural beauty.

He rests a hand on her hip and resists the urge to rip these tights right off of her. But he should be patient. Yes, patient. But he’s never been good at being patient. That’s Soarynn’s specialty.

“Well this is very nice,” he tells her, helping her slide off his white shirt, baring his chest to her, “very, very nice. Where did you get the bow?”

Soarynn smiles up at him, “It’s a secret.”

Right.

“Alright, well can I unwrap my present now?” He asks with a teasing smile, desperate to get his hands on her and more importantly, get her under him.

Soarynn shakes her head and it damn near crushes his hopes and dreams, “Not yet,” she says softly, dragging her hand down his chest towards his belt, “first, I want to give you a smaller gift.” Soarynn cups his hardened length right through his trousers and smirks when he gasps. She’s never ever been this straightforward and he can’t help but ask.

Who is this woman and what has she done with his shy, timid little wife?

The Soarynn he knows rarely ever engages in sexual activity first, she always lets him take the lead which he doesn’t mind at all. He loves being in charge and loves that she trusts him enough to do the things they do but this behavior is entirely different.

“Oh,” is all he says, his voice a croak.

Soarynn nods and slowly unbuckles his belt, "You've just been so stressed darling," she says, almost like she's pouting, "so busy with work, providing for our family. Sometimes you don't even come to bed until early in the morning."

Well, well...well, she has a point. The holiday season is always hectic with work and despite it being a "family-oriented holiday", Coriolanus always finds himself buried in end-of-the-year paperwork. Soarynn understands, of course, someone has to pay the bills but she's taking matters into her own hands it seems.

Literally.

She lets the belt fall to the ground and unzips his trousers at an agonizing pace, like she's teasing him and he's not even fully naked yet. Coriolanus feels frozen, only allowed to watch her palm his length while looking up at him with those gorgeous eyes, like a little vixen.

"Sit down," she says and he nearly sits on the floor. "On the chair," she elaborates pointing over at the sitting area they have in their room.

Who is he to disobey her?

He kicks off his trousers and walks over to the armchair he sits in every night before getting ready for bed. He slowly sinks into the chair and watches with great fascination as Soarynn slowly slips off the bed. Now that she's standing, he can fully admire her outfit and can see that she's wearing red high heels as well.

She's going to fucking kill him.

She's wearing this proud smirk because she knows, she knows she's got him in the palm of her hand.

Once she reaches him and bends down until her lips are ghosting his, "Keep your hands on the chair," she whispers, looking into his eyes with such ferocity that he almost feels scared.

He nods and Soarynn smiles. She carefully sinks down in front of him, on her knees once again and his cock is begging to be touched. Soarynn slips a finger under the waistband of his boxers, causing his breath to hitch. He is the one who teases her like this, but he surprisingly doesn't mind that the roles have been reversed.

Soarynn hums and finally pulls down his boxers, releasing his cock that's already gathered precum at the tip. Soarynn gently grabs it and starts stroking it up and down, up and down. Coriolanus clenches his teeth, it feels so fucking good. He wishes he could just grab her hair like he usually does but he's under specific orders to keep his hands away from her.

He knows what she really meant by that demand: "Stop throat fucking me you impatient, unappreciative bastard."

Soarynn never complains when giving him a blow job but he always likes to be in charge, set the pace. Not tonight though.

Soarynn finally sticks out her tongue and swirls it around his very sensitive tip. He jerks in his seat, gripping the armrests for dear life. She looks up at him, a twinkle in her eyes while he tries to compose himself, restrain himself from grabbing a fistful of her hair, and fucking her throat until she cries.

She maintains eye contact as she takes him into her mouth and it's an ungodly sight that nearly makes him cum right then and there. Soarynn would never admit this, but she's very good at giving head. She can take him all the way down which is a very impressive feat where he's concerned. Coriolanus is well aware that he's well endowed, long in length with enough girth to stretch her out every single time.

She takes him like a champ, bobbing her head up and down, licking the underside of his shaft at the same time and his breathing is becoming labored. He can't remember the last time she gave him head, he's been...well, he's been busy! With work!

And Soarynn is here to remind him of what he's been missing out on.

Soarynn plays with his balls with her other hand and Coriolanus moans, unable to look away no matter how much it kills him to do so. She's just so sexy, so fucking irresistible with his cock buried in her throat. Soarynn takes him all the way down and holds it and he cries out, "Fuck Soarynn!"

He leans forward, pushing his cock further down his throat and Soarynn lets out a gagged groan. She probably didn't think this entirely through, and he doesn't need his hands to properly fuck his wife's throat but before he can do it again, she squeezes his balls hard.

Coriolanus lets out a pained scream and Soarynn pulls herself completely off of him, gasping for air while he does the same.

She wipes her mouth with the back of her hand, her lipstick is slightly smudged and she has a murderous look in her eyes. "Really? You couldn't control yourself one time Coriolanus?"

He sputters while trying to come up with a proper apology or explanation as to why it's impossible not to watch her gag on his cock but she's not hearing it. "Thought you could handle it," she mutters, standing back up. Coriolanus reaches out for her, still painfully hard by the way.

"Soarynn," he calls, "darling, come back, let me try again, I'm sorry. I'll be perfectly behaved."

Soarynn walks over to the bed and bends down, looking for something apparently. He watches her with a puzzled look on his face but it fades quickly when she stands back up with his belt in her hands.

"Absolutely not," he says, shaking his head when she starts walking back over to him. "Soarynn, there's no way in hell I'm gonna let you tie me up."

She feigns a saddened look and rolls her eyes, "Oh really? Because your cock is leaking and we both know you'd rather kill yourself than handle it alone."

His teeth click from how quickly he shuts his mouth.

Who the fuck is this dominatrix?

And what has she done with his wife?

She holds her hands as wide as her shoulders, making the belt go taut between her hands, "The choice is yours, darling. Finish by yourself, or play by my rules for once. You tie me up all the time and I never complain."

He does love to tie her up. It's so fun to see her whine and struggle, to see her take everything he gives her. To see her pretty eyes fill with tears when she gets too stimulated.

He's shooting himself in the foot because he's only getting harder now that he's thinking about it.

Soarynn notices too and smirks, "Choose," she tells him, "are you gonna play naughty, or nice?"

Coriolanus wishes there were a third option such as: 'beg for forgiveness' but her tone is anything but forgiving.

He swallows not only his spit but his pride too, "Nice," he mumbles.

Soarynn grabs a fistful of his hair and yanks his head back, "I'm sorry, I couldn't hear you, darling, say it again, louder this time," she orders, a wicked look in her eyes. He knows exactly what she's doing because two weeks ago he said the exact same thing to her during sex.

He's going to have to watch what he says from now on because she's clearly been keeping score.

He glares up at her, "Nice," he spits out, "I'll be fucking nice."

Soarynn chuckles and lets go of his hair, "Mhm, you'll be my good boy?"

Well, fuck.

His throat bobs from the new petname. He's got a whole list of petnames for her when they're in the bedroom, ranging from "sweet girl" to "my little mindless fuckdoll" but he's never been called this before.

He kinda likes it.

"Yes," he says, much nicer this time.

"Hands," she says, the same way he says it whenever he ties her up. Coriolanus sighs but holds up his hands, wrists right next to each other. Soarynn tilts her head and studies him for a moment, "Actually, put them behind your back," she purrs.

He begrudgingly puts his hands behind his back and bends forward so that Soarynn can tie his hands with his belt. With his own fucking belt. Soarynn gives him a pat on the back once she's done, "There we go, that wasn't so hard was it?"

He hangs his head, "No."

She slides two fingers under his chin and tilts his face up, "What was that?"

Coriolanus wants to be an asshole, be defiant and give her a hard time but for his own safety and sanity, he remains well-behaved. "No," he says louder, "it wasn't that hard."

Soarynn giggles and leans down to press a kiss to his nose, "Exactly, now let's try again, hmm?"

It's embarrassing how eagerly he nods for her to sink back down to her knees but he does. Soarynn settles in front of his cock again and this time, he's prepared to be tortured. Soarynn takes his hardened length into her hand and strokes him up and down a few times before she sticks out her tongue and starts licking his shaft, slowly to tease him.

Coriolanus moans, throwing his head back while he fights to break his hands free but it's no use, she's tied him up very well. She's been taking notes apparently.

When she takes him into her mouth again, his toes are curling and his teeth are grinding. It feels so fucking good. Soarynn bobs her head up and down, still looking him in the eye but this time, he's truly at her mercy. Soarynn stops at the tip and swirls her tongue around like it's a goddamn lollipop and he almost loses his mind.

"Oh fuck," he gasps, sweat forming on his brow, "fuck I'm close."

Soarynn keeps a steady pace, using her other hand to pump his shaft while she focuses on torturing his overly sensitive tip. He can feel himself getting closer and closer and, "Oh fuck Soarynn," he moans, spilling into her throat.

It's strange not to be able to grab her hair or hold her head down. All he can do is sit there and squirm while he cums. He watches Soarynn close her eyes while his cum spurts down her throat, continuing to pump his shaft.

He gasps at how good it feels and leans back in the chair, riding out his prolonged orgasm. When he finally stops, he's out of breath.

"Fuck that was good," he says, closing his eyes.

He's ready for a shower, well, maybe one round of sex, and then a shower.

Soarynn starts bobbing her throat up and down again.

Coriolanus sits right back up, eyes wide with confusion as his wife keeps sucking him off as if he didn't just cum right down her throat. "Soarynn," he gasps, trying to buck her off of him, "what're you doing?" She only moans while continuing to suck him off, going at a much faster pace this time.

"Shit," he grits out, "Soarynn, I...I can't, fuck, Soarynn!"

She looks back up at him and he can see how much she's enjoying this, enjoying how he's completely helpless, depending on her for his next orgasm which he doesn't even think he can handle but that's beside the point.

Like fucking clockwork, another orgasm is approaching and Coriolanus might just die if he reaches it. But Soarynn is clearly trying to kill him. Coriolanus whimpers, digging his fingernails into his palms as he feels himself getting closer again.

Soarynn lets go of his shaft and brings her hand down to his balls and he blacks out.

Coriolanus doesn't know how long he stays unconscious, he only starts to feel his body again when he feels Soarynn's nails gently scratching his scalp. He groans and slowly opens his eyes, blinking from the bright lights. The first thing he sees is Soarynn, smiling at him which is a nice thing to see when you come back from the dead.

She's sitting in his lap and that's when Coriolanus realizes that she's untied his hands. The evil, mischievous little part of him wants to take her right here and now and show her who's really in charge.

But the gentle, and overstimulated part of him simply rests his hands on her waist and leans into her touch. Soarynn chuckles, "Good choice." He furrows his eyebrows and she kisses his cheek, "If you tried to fuck me right now, you wouldn't even be able to stand, let alone use your cock."

Coriolanus blushes, he's never seen her so confident, so sure of herself. It's like they've switched places for one night only. "That was...that was amazing," he finally says, his voice slightly scratchy, "what the fuck was that?"

Soarynn laughs, resting her head on his shoulder with a content hum, "Oh, I don't know," she sighs, kicking her feet as they dangle off the side of the chair, "I just thought you might enjoy something different, something where you don't have to make all the decisions all the time."

He runs his fingers through her long blonde hair, feeling how soft it is, "Part of me wanted to jump you," he admits, remembering how frustrated he had been. "I know," she says sweetly, trailing her other hand up and down his bare chest. "But the other part of me was so...so hypnotized by you," he says, still in awe, "you turned into a new person."

Soarynn laughs, lifting her head so she can look him in the eyes again, "You like control," she tells him pointedly, "always have, always will and I like giving it to you. But it's nice to switch things up every once in a while, don't you think?"

Coriolanus is nodding before he can even stop himself. It is nice.

"Yeah," he says, nosing her jaw, "it's really nice."

Soarynn shifts on his lap and he's once again painfully aware of how sensitive his cock is. He's not hard but he could be very quickly. "Do you wanna fuck me now?" She asks him, batting those eyelashes the way she always does. Coriolanus swallows and looks at her sexy outfit again, "Maybe," he mumbles.

Soarynn giggles and grabs his jaw in her hand, "Do you wanna fuck me from behind? And make me take it over and over again?" She nods his head for him and his cock is starting to twitch again but she's on a roll again, "You wanna fuck me until I'm crying, and fill my cunt up with your cum since I belong to you and only you?"

"Yes," he says before she can say anything else, crashing his lips onto her lips. Soarynn smiles into the kiss and rests her hand on his neck while his hands grip her waist tightly. They move in sync, knowing exactly what to do after being together for over nine years.

"Good," she whispers, slightly pulling away, "because I really didn't want to have to be on top."

Coriolanus laughs, kissing her again but softer this time, taking his time to appreciate his beautiful, sexy, smart wife who gave him a Christmas Eve to remember.

"Only good girls get to be on top," he mumbles against her lips, "and you've been very naughty."

| tumblr oneshot/drabble |

| taglist: @strawberriicakes @wonderlandbound111 @villiansarehottest @thevoicesinmyprettylittlehead @kickmybark @melodyoflovee |

[slaymitchabernathy]

The Nanny

On a quiet morning, when spring and warmer weather were finally on the cusp of the Capitol, Soarynn was stumped by a question that caused her fingers to stop their memorized pattern of braiding Ceraphina's hair.

"Soarynn, how do you know when you're in love?"

Soarynn blinks once, twice, three times. She's never really thought about that before. Of course, she's thought about love, being in love, falling in love. But truly, how does one know when they're in love?

"I...I don't know darling," she admits, grabbing another blonde curl and tucking it into the braid, "I suppose you just wake up one morning and know that you're with the right person."

"Okay, but how?"

Clearly, Soarynn's answer is insufficient for the young girl who's getting to that age where everything is "so romantic." Soarynn remembers being that way when she was little, thinking it was so wonderful how every adult around her was in love. Watching adults hold hands while crossing busy streets and share warm drinks on cold nights was the ultimate tribute to being in love in her eyes.

It also didn't help that she had grown up without witnessing her own parent's love due to the unfortunate death of her mother. She's sure that Ceraphina had experienced a bit of that as well, even though she knew her mother before she passed away.

But Coriolanus and Livia were never in love.

He's admitted to that countless times since they started courting, talked about how Livia made him feel as if he were stuck in the middle of a business arrangement. It often leads Soarynn to wonder how many other couples are simply together for all the wrong reasons and if she and Coriolanus are together for the wrong ones as well.

Not that there's anything wrong with them. After that little hallway incident, he's been nothing but sweet, showering her with words of adoration, tokens of his affection, and sweet gestures that go above and beyond. He's certainly a charmer.

But sometimes she wonders about how they met, how strange it is that a nanny ended up with her employer and then she just ends up feeling strange and icky.

At least she didn't break up their marriage. That's something she constantly reminds herself of. Their marriage was broken long before she came to the Snow family.

"It's this feeling you get inside of you," Soarynn says, placing a hand over her heart, "this feeling that you simply can't live without this person and you want to do everything with them, no matter how mundane or uncomfortable. With the love of your life, everything makes sense."

Ceraphina tilts her head, "Are you in love with Daddy?"

Soarynn already knows how she feels about Coriolanus, but she doesn't always know how he feels about her.

"I care very deeply about your father," she smoothly answers, giving Ceraphina a tight-lipped smile through the mirror's reflection. Ceraphina returns it with one of her own and kicks her feet as they dangle off the vanity stool, "Is Daddy your best friend?" Soarynn raises her eyebrows, she has friends, but a best friend is something she hasn't considered.

But the more she thinks about it, the more it seems plausible. They see each other every day, they spend lots of time together, they joke and laugh with one another, he makes her happy, she feels as though she can tell him anything. They're honest with each other.

Isn't that what a best friend is?

"He is," she confirms with a more genuine smile this time, "spending time with your father makes me very happy." Ceraphina giggles and cranes her neck back so that she's looking up at Soarynn, "Good! Because I asked him last night and he said that you were his best friend!"

Soarynn's eyes widen in surprise, she's forgotten how involved the girls can get with her relationship with their father. At first, she had worried there might be jealousy. They were the only girls in his life and now there was another woman but that wasn't the case. No, the girls were elated to have Soarynn and their father together, a little too elated sometimes since they were constantly hinting at marriage.

Which sometimes worried Soarynn because she didn't want to get her own hopes up let alone the children's. Coriolanus hadn't really ever talked about getting married again and it's not like she could blame him when his last marriage had a bit of a traumatic ending.

"Well, I'm glad that we're on the same page," she says, tying up Ceraphina's hair with a ribbon, "and you look so pretty darling, this is the perfect look for the museum today." Ceraphina smiles at her reflection, admiring Soarynn's handiwork with her hair, "Thank you!"

Soarynn presses a kiss to the top of her head before Ceraphina hops off of the stool and runs out into her bedroom, leaving Soarynn alone in the bathroom with a looming question.

Does Coriolanus see her as a potential wife?

꧁ ꧂

After contemplating her relationship in the bathroom for a good five minutes, Soarynn gathered herself and her thoughts before making her way out into the girls' room and instructing them to put on their shoes so they could depart for the museum.

"I'll go get your brother's shoes on and meet you in the hallway," she tells them, waiting for nods of confirmation so she can actually trust them to do what she said. Once both girls dutifully bob their heads up and down, Soarynn slips out into the hallway and heads toward Caspian's room. But then she stops when she sees several Avoxes walking in and out of the one room that is practically off-limits.

The master bedroom. Where she sleeps almost every night.

The Avoxes appear to be carrying lots of boxes in and out of the room which puzzles Soarynn. Just this morning she woke up in the arms of her lover and he hadn't mentioned any new furniture being moved into the room. Perhaps it's something that Eudora planned out and Coriolanus simply forgot about it.

Soarynn shrugs it off and gently opens the doors to Caspian's room, finding him right where she left him, on his new bed. Caspian has slept in a crib since the day she started working for the Snows but just last week he got a brand-new bed.

A "big-boy bed."

He's been very pleased with himself and his new bed, constantly climbing in and out of it for the fun of it. Coriolanus had worried that he might try to slip out of his room in the middle of the night but Soarynn reminded him of Caspian's inability to reach the door handles and that calmed him down.

It certainly is adorable to see him so excited about his new bed and the best thing about it is that he can now fit more stuffed animals on it compared to his crib where his space was more limited.

"Lenny go museum," he says the moment he lays eyes on Soarynn. The two-year-old boy has become more and more determined to bring Lenny everywhere and Soarynn has become more and more discouraged to argue with him since it'll often end in a tantrum. And for Caspian, a tantrum is him sitting facing the wall and not talking to anyone for at least two hours.

Which is the best tantrum she's ever seen but it's still a tantrum nonetheless.

"Lenny can come to the museum darling," she reassures him, "but we've got to get your shoes on first." His eyes scan his bedroom floor and Soarynn does the same thing because she swears that she laid out his shoes earlier this morning. Unless a certain toddler moved them and can't remember where he put them.

"You wouldn't happen to know where they are, would you Cas?"

He averts his gaze, staring up at the ceiling instead and Soarynn laughs, "I'll take that as a no." That's okay, he has more shoes than he'll ever need so she just goes into the closet to find another pair. She dressed him in khaki-colored pants, a little white shirt, and a red coat to go overtop for when they're outside. Soarynn grabs a small pair of brown leather shoes, humming to herself as she undoes the tiny laces. The thing she loves about children is how cute their clothes are.

She wonders how tiny baby clothes can get.

Does Coriolanus want another baby if they get married?

She really needs to get a grip on her thoughts because this is getting out of hand. Right now, all she needs to focus on is the children.

She has to be the nanny.

꧁ ꧂

There are days when Soarynn only sees Coriolanus once. Breakfast is a promised meeting time for the entire family no matter what the day holds and Soarynn looks forward to it immensely. The girls get to talk to Coriolanus until his ears fall off and Caspian gets to be near his father which is more than enough for him. Breakfast isn't really the time for Soarynn to butt in and talk, not when she often spends the nights with Coriolanus, wrapped up in his sheets.

But today is not one of those days. Because there are days when a person keeps running into the same person over and over again, as if the universe wants them to be together. Even if Soarynn has mixed feelings about that person right now because she doesn't know if he wants to get married and have more children with her.

Which is so utterly ridiculous and she knows that but it doesn't stop her heart from beating faster and faster whenever she thinks of him. Get it together, she tells herself while carrying a sleepy Caspian on her hip, you can talk to him about it tonight. The museum had been wonderful today, a new exhibit about the ocean opened up and the girls loved every second of it. The exhibit mostly focused on different marine life and even had a real whale skeleton.

Needless to say, they were at the museum for a long time.

Caspian was already falling asleep in the car but Soarynn tried to keep him awake until they got back home so she could put him down for a proper nap. "Bed," he mumbles while nuzzling his head against her neck. Soarynn hums, brushing some of his hair out of his face, "I know sweet boy, we'll get you down for a nap."

They ran into Eudora when they got back home and she took the girls to get a snack so Soarynn could put Caspian down for a nap. Soarynn starts walking up the back staircase, her head down as she focuses on the steps when she notices a pair of black leather shoes pass by her going in the opposite direction. She immediately looks up when the scent of roses washes over her and comes face to face with a grinning Coriolanus.

Her heart might beat out of her chest, she doesn't know why she's suddenly so nervous around him, it's probably got something to do with her stupid thoughts about the future and what it holds for them.

"Well isn't this a pleasant surprise?" He says, resting a hand on her arm. Soarynn forces a smile onto her face and nods, "Yes, yes it is. We just got back from the museum." A wave of recognition washes over his porcelain face, "Ah yes, I remember you mentioned it this morning at breakfast."

Soarynn hums but doesn't say anything else which is ironic since she's usually thrilled to run into Coriolanus in the middle of the day. He rarely ever leaves his study if he's working from home.

He furrows his eyebrows, looking her up and down in a concerned manner, "Are you feeling alright darling?"

"Mhm."

Caspian lifts his head after hearing his father's voice, "Lenny go nap."

Coriolanus gives Caspian a gentle squeeze, fixing the collar of his little coat, "Lenny isn't the only one who needs a nap." Soarynn chuckles softly, Caspian often projects his needs and wants onto Lenny, "What were you doing upstairs?" She asks, her curiosity getting the best of her. Coriolanus is a man who values routine and the only time he ever comes upstairs is if he needs to change his clothes but he appears to be wearing the same outfit he wore to breakfast this morning.

He coughs into his fist, looking down at the floor, "Just needed to grab something."

Now they're both lying.

"Alright. Well...I'll see you later then," she says softly, taking another step up. Coriolanus gives her a grunt of approval, "Yes, I was thinking we could have dinner tonight." She doesn't know if she can survive dinner with him tonight, not with her own thoughts running wild but she doesn't want to be rude or ungrateful, "That sounds wonderful," she lies.

He smiles although it doesn't reach his eyes the way a genuine smile does and leans forward to press a kiss to her cheek, "I'll see you tonight then darling."

Soarynn nods and turns to go up the rest of the stairs but she stops herself midway, unable to stop herself from asking the question that's been burning in her mind since doing Ceraphina's hair this morning, "Actually I," Coriolanus stops in his tracks, looking up at her from the first landing of steps, "Yes?"

Soarynn feels a rush of embarrassment wash over her. What a stupid thing to ask him right now, "Never mind," she says, going up the rest of the steps before he can stop her.

Soarynn scolds herself for acting so...so stupid! This morning she felt perfectly normal around Coriolanus, giddy even but now she can barely look the man in the eyes without wanting to ask him if they're ever going to get married or have children.

At least she has until tonight to get her thoughts and her act together.

Soarynn pads into Caspian's room, changing him into pajamas before tucking him into his new bed. She kisses his forehead and sings his favorite song, the meadow song, watching him drift off to sleep with Lenny in his grip. Soarynn watches him sleep for a while, enamored by the sweet boy who calls her his mother despite having no blood relation.

If Caspian considers her his mother then why should she even worry about Coriolanus wanting more children? Ceraphina, Celeste, and Caspian are more than perfect. If anything, Soarynn is selfish for wanting more children.

There, problem solved.

꧁ ꧂

"Soarynn dear, could you run this over to Coriolanus?"

Problem not solved.

Soarynn might throw up.

She just got downstairs after putting Caspian down for his nap and she was feeling much better before Eudora asked her that question. She thought she just solved her problem but just hearing his name made her feel nervous. She brushes her hair behind her ears, looking around the room to make sure that Eudora is talking to her and not someone else named Soarynn.

"Don't you want to do it?" She asks, doing her best to sound casual while stepping into the dining room. Eudora and the girls are all sitting at the table, cookies and tea in front of them although it looks like the girls are drinking apple juice from the tea cups instead of actual tea.

Eudora waves her off as if she's doing Soarynn a grand favor, "You'll be fine, just hand him this file. He asked me to go over it this morning for the upcoming Hunger Games."

Ah yes, the Hunger Games that Coriolanus has to keep running because apparently, his father created them. The night that Coriolanus told Soarynn about Lucy Gray, he also told her more about the origin of the Hunger Games and how his father and Casca Highbottom created them. It was apparently a drunk joke that was made but it turned into something much more sinister once it was written onto paper and turned in as an assignment to Dr. Gaul, one of the Head Gamemakers.

It had honestly horrified Soarynn to know that the reasoning behind twenty-four children being forced to fight to the death was due to a drunk joke but she kept those thoughts to herself. It's not like she could stop them now. Coriolanus didn't seem ecstatic about them either but as President of Panem, it was his job to see to it that they continued this pageantry.

Lucky him.

Soarynn slowly takes the file from Eudora, holding it at arm's length like it's a ticking time bomb, "I'll go give it to him," she finally says, accepting her fate. Eudora gives her a questionable look but nods, "We'll be right here dear."

"Tell Daddy we said hi," Celeste tells Soarynn who swallows and turns to walk back out of the dining room, a dark cloud looming over her once more.

She all but drags her feet down the long hallway that leads to his study, a hallway she normally skips down because it means getting to see Coriolanus. But not today.

She stops once she reaches the doors that lead to his study when she notices that they're not all the way closed. She can hear two muffled voices, male voices, one belongs to Coriolanus, and the other she can't quite place. It's terribly rude to eavesdrop but Soarynn can't help but lean in a little closer to peer inside of his study.

She can see Coriolanus sitting on the sofa by the fireplace, a glass of whiskey in his hand while he talks. She looks over at the other man and finds that it's Quintus Heavensbee, his most trusted advisor. It doesn't sound like they're talking about anything truly important, in fact, they're talking about women.

"...Perlina said it would be a nice trip but after what happened to you in Four, I just don't trust the Districts," Quintus says with a shake of his head, his back towards the doors. Coriolanus lets out a dry laugh, "I never trusted them to begin with. But after Four, the children will never go again." Soarynn agrees with him on that, the attack in District Four could've ended so badly for them. For her.

"They're leeches, filthy leeches that are desperate to get their hands on what matters most to you," Quintus tells him, "speaking of which, how are things with Soarynn?"

Her breath gets caught in her throat and she has to remind herself to breathe again while Coriolanus takes a sip of his drink, "Good, she's good, things are good. I'm taking her to dinner tonight."

Quintus nods and leans back in his chair, "I must say she looks nearly identical to Ceraphina, she could easily pass for her mother if I didn't know any better." Soarynn has to agree with that as well, she and Ceraphina share the same eye color and hair color, leading them to look like a mother-daughter duo. She certainly sees Ceraphina as her daughter, even if she shouldn't.

"Well she's more of a mother to her than Livia ever was," Coriolanus says, bitterness evident in his tone of voice, "and a better partner as well." Her heart flutters from the compliment, Soarynn has never been in a relationship before and she often wonders if she's doing enough. Coriolanus has always been one for words of praise but he could always just lie and be polite to protect her feelings.

"Could you see yourself marrying her?" Quintus asks and Soarynn nearly blacks out. It's as if the heavens above have answered her question! Now she just needs Coriolanus to answer the question and Coriolanus is the master at avoiding things he doesn't want to answer. He's an expert, in fact, diverting the topic by giving an answer completely unrelated to the question. Soarynn has called him out on it before and he's always grinned and claimed that it's a skill only the President can possess.

Coriolanus goes quiet, too quiet for her liking. Soarynn watches him think long and hard about that question, "Not tomorrow," Quintus adds, picking up on the lingering silence, "no one would blame you if you didn't want to remarry."

Coriolanus shakes his head, a determined look now on his face, "I could see myself marrying Soarynn," he answers confidently, "sooner rather than later if I'm being honest. Losing Livia taught me a valuable lesson, many lessons actually but it taught me that nothing is promised. If something were to happen to Soarynn and I missed my chance then I'd never forgive myself."

Soarynn turns around and lets out a silent scream of excitement before collecting herself and taking a few steps back as if she hasn't been listening to the conversation for the past five minutes. She raises her fist to knock on the doors and makes her presence known this time, "Coriolanus? I have something to give you from Eudora."

She listens to their conversation come to a halt and hears someone get up and shuffle towards the doors. Quintus is the one who opens them, greeting her with a kind smile, "Hello Soarynn, how are you today?" She returns his smile with one of her own, genuine this time now that she doesn't have that nagging thought in her head, "Hello Quintus, I'm absolutely wonderful."

He steps to the side so she can walk inside and she's met with a skeptical look from Coriolanus who remains seated on the sofa, "Really? Because when I saw you on the staircase you looked like you were about to be sick." Soartynn waves him off, crossing the room to hand him the file, "I'm perfectly fine," she tells him, "you shouldn't worry about me, darling." The random use of the petname brings a blush to his cheeks and Quintus chuckles, "It's the President's job to worry, isn't it Coriolanus?"

Coriolanus still seems to be in a confused daze but he quickly shakes it off, taking the file from her and adopting the more stern look she's used to seeing from him, "Yes, quite right. Thank you for bringing me the file Soarynn."

Soarynn nods and she can't help but keep going now that she doesn't have any existential dread weighing her down, "What were you two just talking about a moment ago?"

Both men answer her at the same time.

"Taxes."

"Trains."

Soarynn raises her eyebrows, looking back and forth as they clear their throats in an effort to look less guilty, "Taxes and trains? What a thrilling topic." Coriolanus quickly rises to his feet, setting down his glass and the file, both long forgotten, "Yes, it's riveting stuff darling but I think I hear the children calling for you and I have much to do before tonight." He rests a hand on her back and gently guides her past Quintus towards the doors.

Soarynn innocently looks up at him from over his shoulder, "I didn't hear the children."

"You might need to get your ears checked then. I'll see you tonight," he says, kissing her temple before he gently pushes her out into the hall and shuts the doors in her face.

Soarynn crosses her arms, getting her ears checked, please.

Why can't men ever just come out and say what they mean? And they say women are complicated creatures.

꧁ ꧂

Later that day, Soarynn finds herself wondering about something else, something less important.

What is she going to wear tonight?

No matter where they go or what they do, Coriolanus and Soarynn always dress up for the occasion. Soarynn has always enjoyed dressing up for herself and no one else but now that she's in a relationship, it's an added bonus to have a grown man drooling over her.

"Would you two like to help me choose my outfit for tonight?" She asks the girls while they have an early dinner. The girls both gasp, eager to participate in the adult activity of preparing for date night. If they had their way, they'd come with Soarynn and Coriolanus but he's remained very firm that going out on dates is a two-person job.

But that doesn't stop the girls from asking to come. So Soarynn has found that them helping her get ready makes their separation much easier. And although she'd never admit it, easier for her as well.

"Yes!" Ceraphina says, bouncing in her seat, "Can we put on your makeup too?" Makeup is a bit more risky since Soarynn has found out that the girls love to use a heavy hand when applying things such as blush. "Oh, I was thinking you two might help me pick out a bag too," she adds, earning her more excited gasps. Caspian who's sitting in her lap, rests a hand on her arm, "Momma stay."

Her smile falters at his request, maybe she should stay, she and Coriolanus just went out to dinner a few nights ago. But Eudora is quick to intervene, "I thought we might watch one of your favorite films tonight children." Caspian perks up when he hears that, he loves to watch films, especially ones that feature animals. Coriolanus is pretty strict about how much television the children can watch and only permits a certain amount of time per week that they can spend in front of the large screen.

A film is a special treat.

He looks back up at Soarynn, a change of heart, "Momma go."

Soarynn and Eudora laugh at the sudden switch and Soarynn presses a kiss to his head, "Eager to get rid of me hmm?"

"Eudora, can I ask you a question?" Ceraphina asks sweetly, batting her eyelashes which causes Eudora to raise an eyebrow. Ceraphina has a habit of asking the craziest questions at the worst times, it's truly a gift. "Yes, you may dear."

"Have you ever been in love?"

Eudora lets out another laugh, a dismissive one at that, and shakes her head, "I don't believe in relationships dear, they're far too complicated for a woman of my age and status to concern myself with."

Ceraphina frowns, slouching in her seat, "You never fell in love? Ever? Not even once?"

Eudora shakes her head, sighing, "No, well...there was that one time," she mumbles the last part. Soarynn and the children lean in, eager to hear about Eudora Trinket's one love. "Who was he?" Celeste asks, "Or she?"

Eudora looks up at the ceiling dramatically, as if reliving her last moments with her lover, "We were too different," she exclaims, "I was in love with schedules, planning, telling people what to do. And he..." She looks back down at the table, grabbing her napkin and dabbing at her eyes, "He was in love with the weather."

It takes them a full ten seconds to realize who she's talking about.

"Lucky?!" Soarynn asks, unable to believe that Eudora and Lucky have ever shared a single interest let alone a conversation. The girls look as surprised as she is, even Caspian seems to be in denial. Eudora shrugs, "I like a man with a mustache, what can I say? But we were too different, we had different passions and when two people are in love, that means that they must sometimes give up their passions for one another."

She has a valid point.

Coriolanus is passionate about being President, being a leader, a beacon of stability.

But what is Soarynn passionate about?

꧁ ꧂

Soarynn pokes at her pasta, pushing it around on the plate. It's quiet in the restaurant but that's because Coriolanus bought out the entire room so they could dine privately. A man of grand gestures.

"Are you not hungry?"

She looks up from her plate, finding Coriolanus eyeing her plate of pasta, "I am," she tells him, "I just can't stop thinking about what Eudora said earlier when we were all having dinner together."

Coriolanus takes a sip of his wine before asking, "What did she say at dinner?"

Soarynn sighs, she's sure he's already aware that Eudora was in love with Lucky Flickerman at one point so she chooses to leave that part out, "She was talking about passions and now I can't stop thinking about what my passion is." She pokes at her pasta some more before setting down her fork, "My pasta is probably cold anyway," she grumbles.

Coriolanus gives her a knowing look and waves over their waiter who appears at their table within seconds, "Could you reheat this for her please?" Coriolanus asks, handing over Soarynn's plate to the eager waiter who promises to bring back an entire new plate for her.

She bites her lip, "I'm sorry, I don't mean to act ungrateful. I just can't stop thinking about it." Coriolanus reaches his hand across the table and Soarynn takes it, watching his long fingers intertwine with her shorter ones. "I'd say you're acting preoccupied, not ungrateful," he argues, squeezing her hand, "and I think it's rather obvious what your passions are darling."

She looks up at him confusedly, "It is?"

He chuckles, "Yes, it is. You're so clearly passionate about helping others. You love to lift other people up, you love to connect with those around you, making them feel at ease."

Was it that obvious?

The waiter comes back with a steaming plate of pasta and Soarynn must admit, it looks much tastier when it hasn't been sitting in front of her for ten minutes, "Thank you," she says to the man.

"Of course, Ms. Nightingale."

Soarynn catches Coriolanus staring at her empty ring finger for only a moment before he lets go of her hand, "How did you even get on the topic of passions? Are the children already diving into these deep topics at such a young age?" Soarynn softly laughs and picks up her fork again, appetite regained, "No, Ceraphina asked Eudora if she's ever been in love before."

Coriolanus leans in, already hooked, "Has she?"

Soarynn nods, wrapping several strings of pasta around her fork, "She has."

"With who?"

Soarynn takes her time bringing the pasta to her mouth, watching Coriolanus eagerly await her answer while she slowly chews and swallows, "Lucky Flickerman," she finally says once her mouth isn't full and Coriolanus is taking another sip of his wine. He almost chokes on it, covering his mouth with his own napkin while he recovers and Soarynn giggles, "We didn't believe her either," Soarynn tells him, "but apparently, she has a thing for men with mustaches."

Coriolanus laughs, a real laugh, not a practiced one that he pulls out when they're in public. A laugh that she has been given the privilege of hearing. "I don't believe it," he says, shaking his head, "Eudora has never mentioned her and Lucky before and that's not something that just slips past me." Soarynn shrugs, she's sure that quite a few things manage to slip past Coriolanus unbeknownst to him and someone's dating history certainly qualifies.

"Would it have mattered?" She asks, curious as to how Eudora was even hired in the first place. Did Eudora work for the former President? Or do Presidents hire out their own staff once they're in office?

Coriolanus gives her a confused look and she elaborates, "If you knew that she and Lucky had a former relationship would it have affected you hiring her? I know you can see everyone's files but I highly doubt that past relationships are listed."

"It wouldn't have mattered," he answers, setting down his glass of wine, "and the only information I can see about past relationships is if someone has been divorced or not." Her eyes grow bigger at the mention of divorce, something that's practically unheard of in the elite circles. Divorce is a one-way ticket to being shunned by high society. Unless there's a case of abuse or infidelity, couples stay together, happy or not.

Or your spouse can succumb to a sudden deadly illness like Livia and then you'll end up like Coriolanus.

Those thoughts bring her back to the idea of marriage and children and she just can't help herself from asking the next question, "Do you want children?"

Coriolanus freezes, the room feels much quieter now, much colder and Soarynn's worried that she's truly crossed the line this time. He clears his throat, "I would argue that I already have three perfect children," he tells her slowly. Soarynn must look crazy but she has to know if he wants children with her.

"I meant...I meant with me," she says exasperatedly, grabbing her napkin and twisting it in her hands, "if we were to get married tomorrow then would you want to have children with me?"

His face remains neutral, emotionless which means he's thinking hard about her question. Soarynn has gotten better at reading his facial expressions but he's always been so good at guarding them.

"I think it's expected for any wife to bear the children her husband gifts her," he says, scratching the back of his neck, "as for you, I would expect no less. Children are our legacy, you are your family's legacy and I am mine."

He's right, she's the last Nightingale which is a bit of a terrifying thought if she's being completely honest. She's all alone in this world, no wonder people have lots of children. "I don't mean to be so prying," she tells him, brushing her hair behind her ears nervously, "I just started thinking about it and now I can't stop."

His face softens, showing his true colors and how much he cares for her, "Darling, you could've avoided all of this if you just asked me sooner, it's not a prying thing to ask the man you're courting."

He's right. Soarynn didn't know why she was so worried when it was that easy. She nods, "I know, I just don't want to be another thing for you to worry about." Coriolanus chuckles softly, reaching back across the table and Soarynn gladly takes his hand in hers, "I worry about you regardless," he tells her, "and should we get married and have more children, I'll worry about them as well."

So he does want to marry her!

Hearing it directly instead of eavesdropping feels like a weight has been lifted off of her chest. Soarynn gives him a smile, as genuine as it gets, and squeezes his hand, "I'll hold you to that."

꧁ ꧂

꧁ Three Months Later ꧂

"And what is this for again?" Soarynn asks, looking down at an ornate vision board for an event Eudora is putting together. The older woman waves her off as if this whole thing is insignificant despite how much she's been stressing over it, "It's for after the Hunger Games dear, Corioalnus wants to throw a little party to celebrate."

Soarynn frowns, the Snows have been throwing more parties since she started working for them but this seems...odd. "Aren't we already throwing a party the day of the Reaping?"

Eudora shrugs, flipping through more pages of her binder, "The more the merrier dear, now which tablecloths do you like, the cream or the pearl?" Soarynn compares the two swatches of white fabric, nearly identical and yet too different to the trained eye. Coriolanus would simply pick the first one and move on from there but being a woman means that Soarynn actually appreciates these things.

She has a good eye for decorations and notices the smallest details.

"That's why I have you darling," he'd say whenever she'd point something out that he would've never noticed.

"This seems like a lot of white for a party celebrating the Hunger Games," she murmurs, feeling that the colors should be blood-red, not pretty white shades. "Nonsense, it's a clean slate," Eudora insists, holding up the swatches to the light, "white represents becoming new. We'll have a new Victor on our hands won't we?"

"I suppose," Soarynn replies, pointing at the cream-colored swatch, "and I like the cream one the best."

"I was thinking the same thing."

Both women smile at each other, Soarynn has found a good friend in Eudora Trinket, as well as some sort of a mother figure as well. Eudora is a beacon of reassurance, as long as she's around, they can't mess anything up.

Celeste comes running into the sitting room a second later, entirely out of breath and in a rush as she slowly comes to a stop. Soarynn and Eudora give her a glance before turning back to their work, looking at different centerpieces now that the tablecloths have been selected. Celeste tugs on Soarynn's dress and she looks down at the child, "Yes sweetheart?"

"The painting is gone," Celeste says, her blue eyes filled with vigor and conviction.

Soarynn frowns, glancing at Eudora who looks as lost as she is, "The painting?" She repeats, hoping for some clarification. Celeste nods, swaying back and forth on her heels, "Mhm, it's gone."

Without any further explanation, she runs back out of the room, leaving Soarynn and Eudora very confused as to what all of that was about. "Children are always so vague," Eudora says, clearly not as bothered by Celeste's strange behavior as Soarynn is, "Yes, yes they are," Soarynn agrees.

Forty-five minutes later, a party has been planned and a color scheme decided on. Soarynn and Eudora go their separate ways, Soarynn to the front of the house to get the children from Ceraphina's piano lesson, and Eudora to the kitchen to prepare the kitchen staff for the upcoming parties and their menus.

As Soarynn walks through the great hall, she notices something out of the corner of her eye.

Something missing.

The painting.

It's pretty fucking hard to miss too. What used to be a giant painting of the entire Snow family is now gone, with only a bare wall to show that there was once a large object taking up its space. Soarynn stops dead in her tracks, looking around to see if perhaps it was taken down for cleaning purposes but she finds no trace of it anywhere. It's pretty much impossible to hide something of that size but she's hoping it might be hiding under a rug or a table.

It was a beautiful painting in Soarynn's opinion. The children were much younger than they are now, and Livia was well and alive. But now it's gone. And it's left a sinking feeling in her stomach.

Why would Coriolanus have it removed?

Soarynn shakes her head in an effort to shake away those thoughts, she can no longer hear the incorrect piano keys being played so that means Ceraphina's lesson has come to a close. She'll have to ask Coriolanus about it later.

꧁ ꧂

Soarynn drags her fingers along the bathwater's surface, popping a few bubbles in the process.

Bathtime is often when she hits a mental wall, she's tired and ready for the day to end even if the children insist that they can easily stay up for another six hours.

She watches Celeste play with her designated "bath time mermaids" which are really just dolls that she plays with in the tub, and a soft smile graces her lips. She loves this little girl so much.

"The painting is gone," she says, catching Celeste off guard but she quickly recovers and her eyes are as wide as they've ever been, "you were right."

Celeste quickly nods, grabbing the edge of the tub, "You saw it?" She asks, her voice barely a whisper even though it's just the two of them in the bathroom right now. Soarynn hums, reaching out to brush her curls off of her forehead, "I did. Although I don't know why it was removed." She can only imagine why, nothing was wrong with the painting and how the hallway just looks empty without it.

Celeste smiles, nearly bouncing out of the tub which causes some water to splash onto the floor, "It means something's gonna happen Soarynn!"

Soarynn does not share Celeste's enthusiasm, "Like what?"

Celeste shrugs, settling back down in the tub, "I don't know," she admits, still grinning ear to ear, "but it's gotta mean something right?"

Soarnyn purses her lips while she thinks about the possibilities and a very specific one crosses her mind but she doesn't dare speak it into existence.

"I suppose it does," is all she replies with, grabbing the shampoo, "now let's wash your hair darling."

꧁ ꧂

After putting all three children to bed, Soarynn finds herself strolling the halls of the President's Mansion. She knows the place like the back of her hand now that she lives here although the children always know the best places to hide when they play hide-and-seek. She passes the massive doors that lead to the ballroom and sees several Avoxes mopping and floors, preparing for the parties they'll be hosting for the upcoming Hunger Games.

She's almost been here for a year and yet it feels like ten.

Soarynn sighs, she ought to take a walk outside since Coriolanus won't be getting home until late since he's at dinner. She'll go upstairs and get her coat.

She quietly climbs up the stairs and comes across Petunia lying in the middle of the hallway, her tail flicking back and forth while she watches Soarynn approach her, "Hello Petunia," she greets the feline who purrs in response and rolls onto her back. Soarynn chuckles, crouching down to rub her soft belly, "Have any more paintings gone missing or am I slowly losing it?" She asks, more to herself than to the cat.

Coriolanus had that painting removed on purpose. To send a message.

But what message is he trying to convey?

Soarynn stands back up, Petunia following her to the bedroom that is now as good as hers ever since Coriolanus had her move in with him. On the same day that Soarynn was spiraling about having children with Coriolanus, she had witnessed several boxes being moved in and out of his bedroom. She hadn't really paid it any mind since her mind was very preoccupied at the moment but after they returned home from dinner that night, she discovered that he had removed all of Livia's clothing and brought in Soarynn's.

It had rendered her speechless. She was more than used to going to her room whenever she was in need of clothes so to have him remove his late wife's clothing without her even mentioning it left her feeling slightly perturbed. Sure it was a sign of moving forward from her death but it was still quite a shock.

Now she fully lived in his room. She got dressed in his room, showered in his room, and slept in his room. Things were very official.

But she would be lying if she said that having a 'his and hers' closet didn't make her a little bit giddy. His side was filled with expensive tailored suits whereas her side was filled with dresses, skirts, blouses, pants, and lots of shoes. Coriolanus often liked to surprise her with a new handbag or pair of shoes. He'd leave it on the large table they had in the middle of the walk-in closet, next to the vase of fresh roses that always sat in the center.

But as she walks into the bedroom, she feels as if the pieces are slowly falling together.

The closet, the painting, the all-white color scheme for this Hunger Games party suddenly popping up on the schedule, the schedule that Eudora briefed her on at the beginning of June that she swore would not change.

Coriolanus is going to propose to her.

Soarynn feels as if the floor has been pulled out from under her.

She needs to get out, go for a walk, clear her head.

She hurries into the closet and snatches the first coat she sees and throws it on, striding out into the bedroom once again, feeling hot and flushed. Petunia meows for her attention but Soarynn's mind is so, so far away from here right now. "I'll be back soon," she mutters, pulling open the doors and slipping into the hallway. She makes her way downstairs and towards the sitting room that Eudora frequents the most. Sure enough, she's sitting at the coffee table with several folders spread out in front of her.

Soarynn clears her throat, causing Eudora to jump, "Oh! Soarynn, I thought you'd be in bed by now." Soarynn shook her head, she couldn't sleep right now if she tried. "I um, I need to run a quick errand," she tells Eudora, her voice low and hushed even though they're the only ones in the room right now, "I'll be back soon."

Eudora looks at her current attire and Soarynn can see a few questions popping up in her head right now but she asks none, "Alright dear, I'll listen out for the children." Soarynn forces a polite smile onto her lips, "Thank you, I shouldn't be too long."

Soarynn goes to the side entrance of the house where a car with a driver is always waiting, "The Capitol Cemetary please," she says to the driver as she slips into the car.

The drive is short but her mind is buzzing the entire time.

When will he propose? Do the children know?

Eudora certainly does if she's planning the damn thing. Or at least some sort of party to celebrate their engagement.

She wonders what Coriolanus is doing right now, if he's thinking of her the way she's thinking of him. She thinks of him constantly now that they're officially together but she often wonders if he does the same thing. He says he does, and he also says that the dinners he attends are very boring, filled with old men who have great influence in Panem. He says he'll introduce her to them at the Reaping party.

She can't wait.

The car slowly rolls up to the gates of the cemetery and she begins to worry when she sees that they're closed. Which is perfectly understandable considering the time of day. Ten o'clock at night.

A Peacekeeper standing by the gates approaches the car and Soaeynn can only hear a muffled conversation between him and her driver. The Peacekeeper walks to her window, peering through the tinted glass and Soarynn rolls it down, flashing him her prettiest smile, "I'm so sorry for the inconvenience," she says sweetly, "it'll only be a moment." The Peacekeeper, a man who looks to be about the same age as her swallows down a lump in his throat, "Of course ma'am."

That's all it takes for her to gain entry.

The driver rolls the partition down, looking at her through the rearview mirror, "Where to Ms. Nightingale?"

She supposes it would look less suspicious if she went to her own parent's graves, "The West Side please." It's a short drive to that side of the Cemetery and Soarynn can feel her heart pounding. If this is all going to happen, then she has to make peace with her conscious, and those who came before her.

The driver opens the door, offering her a gloved hand as she steps out, "Thank you," she says to the man, "I won't be long."

He eyes her warily, "I could accompany you if you'd like Ms. Nightingale." That just won't do. She knows he means well but Soarynn has a plan and she's sticking to it. "No need to worry about me," she assures him, "I'll be back soon." The driver doesn't look too convinced but he doesn't push it and gets back into the car. Soarynn disappears down the tree-lined path toward the other side of the Cemetery, walking past her parent's graves at a swift pace.

She'll pay them a visit later.

She finally sets her sights on what she came here for.

Livia Snow's grave.

It's just her luck that the groundskeeper is walking out of the mausoleum. Coriolanus told her that he had people clean it every week to keep it in perfect condition. Although they never truly loved each other, Livia was the mother of his children, and he'd be a fool to disrespect the dead.

Soarynn quietly approaches the large stone building, watching the groundskeeper sweep the pathway leading up to the doors that she's never entered. He perks up when he notices her, wrapped in her coat, probably a manic look in her eyes as well. "Good...good evening Ms. Nightingale," the older man says, bowing his head. Ever since she started courting Coriolanus, Soarynn's name has become well-known in the Capitol.

She's reached celebrity status and she doesn't always know how to feel about it. But tonight, she'll use it to her advantage.

"Good evening," she replies, "I don't mean to be a bother, but I was hoping to maybe have a moment alone," she nods towards the mausoleum and his eyes follow her gaze. "Oh, oh I see. The Snows are quite particular about who's allowed inside ma'am," he tells her, "only immediate family is allowed."

Soarynn wants to tell him that the entire reason she's here in the first place is because she's about to become immediate family but she withholds that information, "I understand, I'll let Coriolanus know that I wasn't allowed inside," she says with a feigned disappointed sigh. The man quickly perks up at the mention of the President, "Well you might as well go in," he says, digging into his pockets and pulling out a ring of keys, "I wouldn't want to let President Snow down."

Neither would I, she thinks to herself while he unlocks the doors that open with a heavy groan. She slowly steps inside, it's quite dark except for the small lantern above her. Soarynn sets her eyes on the casket at the very back of the building, made of dark wood with roses engraved into it. Her breaths grow shaky as she walks further inside, looking around at all the things that have been left inside as tribute.

There's a vase of roses, and she also sees several cards with children's handwriting and even a stuffed bear sitting against the steps leading up to Livia's casket. Soarynn stops when her heels touch the first step and she crouches down to pick up one of the cards. From what she can tell, it's Ceraphina's handwriting. There's a drawing on the front of the card of the entire family, it's so sweet and heartbreaking at the same time. Soarynn opens the card and her eyes immediately fill with tears.

'I miss you Mommy'

Soarynn carefully sets the card back down and makes her way up the three marble steps, resting her hand on the smooth wooden top of the casket. If she were to push it off, she'd come face-to-face with Livia Snow. Windows let in the pale moonlight and Soarynn notices a framed photograph on the windowsill directly in front of the casket, a photograph of Livia and Coriolanus on their wedding day. Neither of them is smiling but it reminds Soarynn why she came here in the first place.

"I came here...I came here to talk to you," she says quietly, "I've been taking care of your children for quite some time now and there's not a day that goes by where they don't think of you."

Soarynn tries to blink away the tears but it's no use and they spill down her cheeks, "I love Coriolanus, I love him very much and I think he's going to ask me to marry him but I couldn't in good consciousness accept his proposal without coming to you first and telling you that I'll take care of your children. I'll love them like my own and protect them with my every being. And I'll...I'll make a good man out of him, out of Coriolanus. He's trying to be better, I can see it in the way he treats those around him, how he is with the children."

Is Livia Snow scowling down at her? Does she think of Soarynn as some lovesick fool? Or does she want Coriolanus to be happy again?

"I'll make him happy," she whispers, "and make sure that your children remain happy. No harm will befall them as long as I'm around, I promise."

Soarynn stands there for a few more minutes, sniffling while feeling sorry for herself. She highly doubts that Livia ever cried about an upcoming proposal but she lived such a different life than Soarynn, she married an entirely different man.

Soarynn finally gathers herself, wiping her tears and regaining her composure. "We will always keep you in our memories," she whispers before turning to walk down the steps.

Her heels echo on the marble floors and she feels a wave of relief wash over her when she steps out into the summer night. The groundskeeper gives her a curious look, "All is well Ms. Nightingale?"

Soarynn nods, already feeling much better now that she did what needed to be done, "All is well. Thank you for letting me visit."

꧁ ꧂

Soarynn stops at her parent's graves before leaving. Even in death, they're still together, and that brings her comfort knowing that not even death can keep love apart.

"It's been a while," she says, dusting off any leaves from the tops of their tombstones, "but so much has happened. I met someone, he makes me happy. He has three children, they're as sweet as can be. I think I'm going to marry him."

Saying those words out loud makes it feel very real all of a sudden.

After her father died, Soarynn learned that acceptance was the hardest part of grief. Accepting that nothing could be done differently was a hard thing to do, but it was all one could do.

"When I come back I'll bring my children," she tells her parents, kissing the tips of her fingers and touching both of their tombstones.

She means it too. She'll be back.

꧁ ꧂

The President's Mansion is silent when Soarynn returns.

Another car was already parked at the side entrance which means Coriolanus is already home. Soarynn makes her way upstairs, peeking into the children's bedrooms once more to make sure they're asleep. Caspian is curled up in his bed, Lenny wrapped in a tight grip as if he might try to slip away. The girls are both sound asleep under the canopy bed, their new nightlight shining stars onto the ceiling for them while they dream sweet dreams.

Soarynn quietly closes the doors with a soft smile on her face, a day will come when they don't sleep in the same room anymore or require bedtime stories and she's not sure that she's ready for that day yet.

When Soarynn walks into her own bedroom she finds Petunia sitting at the foot of the bed, a black sock in her mouth which means she stole it from Coriolanus. He hadn't been exactly thrilled when Petunia started sleeping in their room but Soarynn argued that if the cat couldn't stay, then neither could she.

The two had since grown a small rivalry between each other. Petunia would steal his socks and neckties and Coriolanus would steal Soarynn and her attention that was usually given to Petunia.

Heaven forbid they get a dog.

Soarynn chuckles softly as she approaches Petunia and gently reaches out to pull the sock from her mouth, “You have more toys than you know what to do with and yet you insist on taking Coryo’s socks,” Soarynn says with a shake of her head.

Petunia doesn’t seem bothered by this issue that has constantly been brought up since she was moved to this bedroom but she does let go of the sock which is progress. Sometimes it’s a bit of a battle to get her to release the socks and it often ends in both parties feeling very offended.

Soarynn doesn’t hear the shower running which means Coriolanus is probably finishing up, ready for bed which sounds wonderful right now. All she wants to do is curl up in bed with the man she's been falling in love with over the past few months.

What could be better than that?

She expects to find him hunched over the sink when she walks into the bathroom, brushing his teeth or washing his face. Although Coriolanus is as masculine as they come, he's quite rigorous with his nightly routines, ensuring that his skin is properly taken care of.

But the bathroom is empty.

The closet doors are open and Soarynn slowly approaches them, slightly stunned to find Coriolanus sitting on the bench they have in the closet right in front of the of the table. It's usually used for Soarynn to sit on when she puts her shoes on in the morning but today it's being used by Coriolanus who's holding a single white rose in his hand. Soarynn glances at the table and finds a whole bouquet sitting there for her accompanied by a card.

She didn't even notice the gift when she came to get her coat.

Coriolanus has already shed his outer layers, leaving him in a white button-up shirt and black pants which he manages to look like peak fashion. He finally looks up at her and Soarynn feels caught even though she's done nothing wrong. He looks tired, he looks like he expected her to be waiting for him when he got back and she usually is.

But not tonight. The roles have been reversed.

"Hi," she says softly, "how was dinner?"

From what Coriolanus has told her, the dinners he attends are often business-related and very boring. She still asks about them even though he rarely goes into detail about what was discussed. He gives her a look, a condescending, sharp look as if she's greatly disappointed him, "Dinner was good," he answers curtly, twisting the rose in between his fingers, "I kept thinking about coming home to you, so imagine my surprise when Eudora said that you stepped out."

Soarynn feels frozen, she feels caught, like she's done something wrong even though she hasn't. If only he knew what it's been like to live in her mind the past few hours.

"I just had to go do something," she starts but he holds his hand up, stopping her, silencing her, "You just had to go do something at ten o'clock at night?" He stands up slowly, letting the rose fall onto the floor and he takes a step towards her, Soarynn has always admired how big Coriolanus is but right now he's damn near frightening. He looms over her and looks down at her, his jaw tightening and his muscles tense, "Tell me Soarynn, do you take me for a fool?"

Soarynn is speechless. He hasn't even heard her out and he's already acting accusatory, "I don't take you for much of anything right now," she answers truthfully and it does nothing but upset him further but they can both be upset together as far as she's concerned.

"I don't speak about Livia often but she'd nev-"

Soarynn is turning on her heel before he can even finish that sentence before he can finish comparing her to his dead wife, "Well I'm not Livia," she calls back from the bathroom, "and I'm not running around behind your back being unfaithful either even though you certainly seem to have made up your mind already as to what I was doing before I got back." She watches him emerge from the closet through the mirror's reflection, he looks upset that she left him and more upset that he came home and she wasn't here to greet him.

But Soarynn is more than upset. She's pissed.

She finally turns back around to face him, some fire has been lit inside of her since visiting Livia's grave and it's about time she set some rules around here if she's going to marry this man who drives her mad. "And I will not tolerate you walking all over me," she tells him matter-of-factly, taking slow steps towards him, "I will not allow you to accuse me of being unfaithful when I have been nothing of the sort. Or do you want to revisit the last time you accused me of such things?" She asks, tilting her head up at him while they both remember how he fired her without so much as hearing her out after Festus came onto her.

A painful memory for both of them but for very different reasons.

Coriolanus is on the losing side of this battle and he's slowly realizing it but he's stubborn and arrogant at times so he won't just back down. He's not built like that, wasn't raised like that.

"Then where were you?" He asks, his hand coming up to grip her jaw, forcing her to maintain eye contact with him. Soarynn gives him a defiant look, "I was paying my respects," she tells him, "at the Cemetery." A confused look washes over his face, she's sure that he imagined the worst, her tangled up in bed with another man. Not running around the Cemetery in the middle of the night.

"The Cemetery," he repeats but this time there's no bitterness in his tone, no venom or malice. Just confusion. Soarynn nods to the best of her ability with him holding her face in his large hand, "It was long overdue and I needed to make peace with some things before I..." Her voice trails off because she can't tell him that she knows, that she's put the pieces together, "Before I fully committed myself to you," she finishes.

There, that wasn't so hard.

Coriolanus still looks confused, vexed by her wording and Soarynn places a hand on his chest, "You can ask my driver if you want," she says slowly, "he'll tell you the same thing I did."

That jolts Coriolanus out of his confusion and he clears his throat, quickly shaking his head and releasing her jaw, "I believe you," he tells her, "and you're right, you're nothing like Livia and I would do well to remember that."

Soarynn hums in agreement, she knows it'll take him some time to unlearn old habits but she's more than willing to be a patient teacher, "Yes you would. I much prefer us when we don't argue." Coriolanus lets out a breathy laugh, carding his fingers through his messy curls, unruly after a long day of work, "I do as well," he admits, "I was just, I expected you to be here when I got back so when you weren't I..."

"You thought the worst," Soarynn finishes for him, slipping her hand into his, intertwining their fingers, "and I understand why you would start to worry but in the future, talk to me before accusing me alright?"

A remorseful look grows across his handsome features, he looks so very sorry for how he just treated her, "I will, and I'm sorry," he tells her, bringing their intertwined hands up to his mouth so he can kiss the back of her hand, "I trust you Soarynn. I don't want you to think that I don't."

Soarynn could always chew him out just a little longer, just for the fun of it but she's not a masochist. And she doesn't enjoy seeing others at their lowest. "I trust you too," she says, pushing herself to her toes to press a kiss to his cheek which feels a bit rough, "and I think you need to shave."

They both laugh at her comment, Coriolanus always shaves his face at night and Soarynn appreciates a clean-shaven face compared to a rough one. The girls do as well, whenever they give Coriolanus a kiss on the cheek they make sure to let him know if he needs to grab a fresh razor blade.

"Then why don't you help me," he offers, pulling them towards the counter.

Soarynn can't hide her look of surprise, she's seen him shave before but she's never helped him do it, only watched while she did her own thing. "Are you sure?" She asks while he pulls open one of the drawers on his side of the counter, she wouldn't want to accidentally cut his handsome face.

"Of course," he says, brandishing a razor along with a bottle of what must be shaving cream, "I trust you."

Soarynn's not sure that she trusts herself with a job like this but she still shrugs off her coat and slips out of her heels, leaving her in the dress she wore today.

She leans against the counter, admiring their shared bathroom space. Before she moved in with him, this bathroom was sparse. The countertops had nothing on them aside from a bottle of cologne or a box of tissues. Now that Soarynn lives here, there are lots of feminine products for her face and hair. She has a small makeup organizer that sits on top of the counter, it has roses painted on the side of it and it holds her favorite makeup products. There's also a photo of Soarynn with the children from one of their many visits to the museum.

She likes to look at it while she does her hair. The bathroom is huge to put it plainly and Soarynn has more than enough to fill it up. There's also a built-in vanity by the shower where she often does her makeup if she doesn't feel like standing at the counter. A small vase of roses sits on the vanity counter, always fresh from Coriolanus who insists that she's as pretty as a rose.

"If I nick you then you'll only have yourself to blame," she tells him as he comes over to her side of the counter with his tools in hand. Coriolanus shrugs, "That's a risk I'm willing to take if it means you'll kiss me on the cheek more often, now hop onto the counter darling."

Soarynn eyes the counter warily, she's never sat on it before and she doesn't doubt its ability to hold her up but she does doubt her ability to keep her dress from getting shaving cream on it. "Let me take my dress off first," she murmurs, reaching behind her to pull down the zipper. She slips out of her dress without even thinking about how sensual it might look to Coriolanus who is a man who often thinks with what's between his legs rather than his head.

In only her bralette and underwear, Soarynn hops onto the counter, her legs dangling off the edge, "Where do I start?" She asks, ignoring Coriolanus and his slacked jaw while he shamelessly eyes her almost naked body, "I don't think you're finished," he teases, going to pull the strap to her bralette off of her shoulder but Soarynn slaps his hand away, "Behave yourself," she chides, "and hand me the razor."

Coriolanus does as he's told but begins unbuttoning his shirt, baring his chest to her which does unspeakable things to the mind that Soarynn desperately tries to keep pure. He smirks at how he's affected her by simply taking off his shirt and leans down to press a kiss to her lips, "Now we're even," he murmurs while kissing her. Soarynn sighs into the kiss, shaving long forgotten once his hands wrap around her waist, pulling her flush against him. Even on the counter she's still shorter than him but she doesn't mind, especially when his hands slide down to her ass, making her whimper, "We need to focus," she says between kisses.

Coriolanus groans when her own hands come to rest on his belt, tugging at the buckle, "Focus on what?" Soarynn giggles into the kiss, over the past few months they've gotten to know every inch of each other, including their most intimate areas. Coriolanus is a man who gets off on watching his partner being pleasured which is great for Soarynn who loves when he goes down on her. He'll often wake her up by slipping under the covers and prying her legs open, pleasuring her until she cums.

"On shaving," she reminds him, finally getting his belt unbuckled and tossing it onto the floor. When it comes to shaving, both of them run a tight ship. Soarynn has always preferred to be as hairless as possible but she was pleasantly surprised when she found that Coriolanus felt the same way about himself. There was just something about a man who wasn't afraid to shave.

Her hand slips under the waistband of his pants and her fingers graze over the growing boner straining in his boxers, feeling his shudder against his touch, "You know," she says, "it's a shame that we're so traditional, waiting for marriage and all that." She palms him with her hand and he gasps into the kiss, "Yes," he grits out, "it's a real shame."

Soarynn would be lying if she said that she hadn't thought about it before, thought about Coriolanus fully taking her and making her his. But all good things come to those who wait. And Soarynn can be very patient.

꧁ ꧂

It amazes Soarynn how two people can go from being super sexual to tenderly intimate within a matter of minutes.

With the warm shower water running over her skin, she feels perfectly content with his large hands on her hips, his lips gently kissing up and down her neck while they shower off their sexual encounter from minutes before. She lets out a content sigh when his hand lays flat against her stomach and imagines what it would be like to carry a child for him, to have a baby bump and feel their child kicking against his hand.

"What're you thinking about?"

Soarynn opens her eyes, remembering where she is and who she's with, a man who is not yet her husband. "The future," she says, not entirely a lie. She's been thinking about the future a lot lately, what it holds for her, for the family that might be hers someday.

Coriolanus kisses the back of her shoulder before gently spinning her around so that the warm water runs down her back now, "The future hmm? What about the future?" Her breath catches in her throat, it makes her nervous to speak it out loud because then it might not come true.

"I just feel as though something wonderful might happen," she says, lifting her feet off the ground when he wraps his arms around her waist, spinning them around because he knows how much she loves it. His eyes twinkle with amusement and adoration, "Would it be so bad if something wonderful did happen?"

Soarynn wonders if Coriolanus can feel how fast her heart is beating from his question. They're literally chest to chest tight now, nothing between them, "No," she answers softly, "I'd like it very much for something wonderful to happen to us."

He smiles at her use of the word 'us' something she's been doing more often whether she realizes it or not. It's hard not to when she already sees them as an inseparable pair, especially with the children being so on board with their relationship.

"Me too."

She bites her bottom lip, debating on whether or not she should utter those three words that she's never said before in this context.

But after today, after their honesty and her visit to the Cemetery, she feels brave enough to say it.

"I love you."

Coriolanus goes through a range of emotions in about five seconds. From surprise to bewilderment to realization and back to adoration all within the blink of an eye. She wonders if she said it too soon, if she should quickly add that she was joking, just testing the waters.

One of his hands comes up to gently hold her face, holding her as if she's made of priceless glass, so fragile and easy to break. She used to be like that, but not anymore. She's stronger now, better, more determined.

"I love you too."

Soarynn breaks into the biggest smile she's ever worn. She's never felt this way about someone before and she doesn't think Coriolanus has either. They're still learning, still growing as people, as individuals. But she's happy to grow with him, safely by his side, loved and cherished.

Soarynn knows a lot of things but she knows one thing for absolute certain.

She's going to marry this man.

| Part 11. |

| tumblr oneshot/drabble |

{ Part 12. }

꧁|taglist:

@lovelylove268 @strawberriicakes @kickmybark @villiansarehottest @wonderlandbound111 @melodyoflovee @thevoicesinmyprettylittlehead

|꧂

[slaymitchabernathy]

A Sweet Promise

She looks so young. His future wife.

Coriolanus is all but smug as she walks down the aisle towards him, escorted by none other than Strabo Plinth, the man who’s as good as his father now that Sejanus is out of the way.

He can hear the whispers, the murmurs throughout the room as she gets closer to him. Some are about her youthful beauty and yes, she is entirely beautiful. Others are about her age, but he doesn’t see it as a pressing problem. Only a few are about where she originated from.

The Districts.

Never in a million years did Coriolanus Snow think he’d get married to someone from the Districts but his life has proven to be full of surprises.

Once he became President it seemed that everyone around him was waiting for him to get married. He hasn’t been opposed to it really, he just wasn’t entirely eager to tie himself down.

Unless it was done on his terms.

He didn’t want to marry some rich and spoiled Capitol girl who expected him to worship the ground she walked on. No, he needed someone easy to teach, to train. To mold.

After pouring over all the Districts for a somewhat suitable match he landed in District Two, the Capitol’s most loyal District by far. Several screenings were done with all of Two’s young girls ranging from eighteen to twenty-two. Most of them were quite the depressing sight with their sunken in cheekbones and bony fingers.

Then he saw her, saw Soarynn.

She was slightly better looking, but that could be credited to her being the daughter of a Peacekeeper commander. She was quiet, but he didn’t mind. Her eyes were so startling as he looked at her through the two-way mirror they had set up. He couldn’t take his eyes off her as the interviewer asked her all sorts of questions about herself and her life.

After enough data had been collected they ran a set of tests so ensure that Soarynn was more than capable of providing Coriolanus with children.

She was.

And so, their marriage was arranged. He withheld any contact with the girl until this fateful day as to not ruin her perception of him. He needed her to fear him, to respect him and all his commands. If he got too close, too kind and gentle, then this would all be for nothing.

Soarynn and Strabo finally reach the altar and Strabo helps Soarynn up the few steps that lead to Coriolanus who takes her dainty hand in his large one.

He notices her freshly manicured nails immediately and is more than pleased with how she’s cleaned up since he last saw her. Once Coriolanus knew he’d be marrying Soarynn, he made sure that she was properly prepared to become not only his wife, but the First Lady of Panem.

She was given all the Capitol treatments that the Tributes usually receive before participating in the Hunger Games. Her hair was styled and trimmed to his liking, her skin was waxed and smoothed, her face was scoured for any imperfections. She was perfect now.

He carefully lifts the veil up from over her face and he’s truly dazzled for a moment by her striking facial features. Her upturned nose, the freckles that cover her entire face, her long lashes and her blue-gray eyes.

She’s beautiful.

Coriolanus also ensured that she was put on a proper diet before arriving to the Capitol a week ago. He couldn’t have his wife looking like a starved child from the Districts. He’s pleased to see that she’s filled out more, she’s now lean and her cheeks are no longer hollowed out.

Soarynn’s eyes reflect a similar feeling of bewilderment and curiosity. She’s heard of him of course, but from what he’s been told, she’s had lots of questions about him since the marriage was arranged.

Coriolanus thought it was somewhat…childish for her to want to know so much about him, even if she was about to marry him. He’ll be quick to shut down any prying questions from her. He really only needs certain things from Soarynn. He needs her for public appearances, to make him seem like a well rounded individual and politician.

He also needs her to provide him with a future, with children.

What he doesn’t need is love. If he wanted a loving companion then he would’ve gotten a dog.

Soarynn is a close second in his opinion.

And she’s better off marrying him than any man from Two. By marrying him, she has a safe and secure future with the promise of a full belly and a warm bed to sleep in. She’s won the lottery of husbands it seems.

Coriolanus tunes out most of the ceremony, his mind too focused on other things like the meetings he has coming up surrounding this years Hunger Games. This entire ceremony is being done out of obligation. They have to sell it, sell this idea of a young couple being madly in love.

If he had his way then they would’ve been married in the Justice Building and gone about their day. But there are images to uphold and people in the Capitol love a good wedding. They’ve taken to the streets in fact to celebrate this union, all hoping to catch a glimpse of the young bride.

So he nods when it’s time to vow himself to her, to be loyal and kind, to protect her and give her children. Soarynn does the same, promising to give him children and remain obedient and trusting.

That’s all she really is to him. A sweet promise.

꧁ ꧂

꧁ Two Months Later ꧂

Coriolanus only hears his footsteps echoing throughout the Presidential Mansion, alerting any staff that might be in his way. Any Avoxes that is.

He’s never been to fond of having staff that can repeat information that he’d rather keep private, so Avoxes were the perfect solution to his dilemma. Easy to train, easy to replace.

Unlike his little wife.

Over the past two months, Soarynn has been doing her very best to avoid him at all costs. Not that he can blame her, he’s an intimidating man and a busy one at that. He barely sees her as it is but their limited interactions lack any genuine connection and that frustrates him.

She doesn’t need to be in love with him, but she could at least make the effort.

She’s been getting lessons in etiquette from his event coordinator, Eudora Trinket to ensure that Soarynn doesn’t publicly embarrass him and they’ve been paying off so far. He’s only brought Soarynn to a handful of events and most of them have been dinners or galas where she’s been pressed to his side the entire night.

But even in her spare time, she never leaves the Mansion.

He’s offered up the idea to her before, well, to Eudora at least, encouraging the older woman to take Soarynn out to see the sights of the Capitol and get more accustomed to life with the elite but Soarynn simply refuses to leave.

And he’s about to find out why.

He approaches the library and tries to remember the last time he actually read a book for enjoyment. According to Eudora, Soarynn spends all her time in the library, pouring over books from all different genres. Coriolanus was simply surprised that the girl could read in the first place let alone actively seek out knowledge.

He pushes the large doors open and the smell of candles and vanilla hits him like a wave. It appears that Soarynn has taken a liking to the vanilla-scented products he got for her. He can’t have his wife smelling like a wild animal.

He scans the large room for any sign of Soarynn but finds none. Perhaps she's somewhere else and he was ill-informed. But then he hears the sound of a book landing on the ground and a small gasp, found you, he thinks to himself, walking to the left side of the library.

The library is huge, filled with mahogany bookshelves and wall paneling. There's a large sitting area in the middle of the room with sofas and armchairs and a large table with notes scattered about from previous Presidents. Coriolanus left this room untouched since it didn't really serve him any purpose, but it has now it seems.

He rounds a corner and finds Soarynn sitting on the floor surrounded by several books and a small white, fluffy creature. Her cat.

When Coriolanus selected Soarynn to be his wife, he was alerted that she had one singular demand once they were married. That she be given a cat. Apparently, her father has an allergy to the particular animal and Soarynn figured that it was now or never to put in such a request. Coriolanus thought it was rather adolescent to ask for a pet, but he didn't marry her for her weathered age. So he got her a cat, even let her pick out the one she wanted.

He's only seen the feline once or twice since she was brought into the household but from what Eudora's told him, the kitten is very sweet and is a ball of energy. Just what he needs.

He watches his wife for a moment, she looks so small sitting on the hardwood floor and she seems absolutely infatuated with the book in her lap. So infatuated that the kitten notices Coriolanus first and meows at him, causing Soarynn to look up, wide-eyed once she takes notice of the President of Panem staring down at her.

The kitten is fearless it seems and runs over to him, batting at his pants. Coriolanus steps to the side and eyes the feline warily, "What's its name?" He didn't care to learn the name of his wife's cat, not when it didn't directly affect him.

Soarynn swallows and watches her kitten continue its assault on his pants, "Her name is Petunia."

Petunia, how precious.

Petunia looks over at Soarynn when she hears her name and runs back over to her owner, purring up a storm. Coriolanus watches how Soarynn smiles at the kitten, how she picks her up and strokes her fur. He also notices how Petunia's eyes are almost identical to Soarynn's, blue and gray.

"You seem to spend a lot of time in here," Coriolanus says, running his finger along a dusty shelf, "a majority of your day in fact." He's not mad, in fact, he knows that it could be much worse, a young District-born girl running rampant around the Capitol sounds like his worst nightmare. Having a shy, introverted wife might just be his biggest blessing in disguise.

Soarynn stares down at the book in her lap, having the decency to look somewhat ashamed, "It's quiet in here," she whispers, "and warm." It certainly is warm since she's got the fire going, plus the added warmth from the large windows makes the library nearly as hot as the greenhouse during the summer.

"Do you get cold often?" He doesn't really care but as her husband, he should at least act somewhat interested in her beyond the basics. Soarynn shrugs, "It was always cold in Two." Indeed it was, what a wasteland.

Coriolanus grunts, "I see. Well, I came to see if there was a specific reason as to why you weren't venturing out to see the Capitol. You have a car and a driver at your beck and call, along with Peacekeepers to keep you safe at all times,"

Soarynn furrows her brows, looking up at him, "Why do I need Peacekeepers when the Capitol is the safest place in Panem?" Looks like someone was paying attention in class. Coriolanus takes another step towards her, closing the distance between them and he doesn't miss how Soarynn tenses up, they haven't been this close together in a room alone before.

"You have Peacekeepers because I want you to have Peacekeepers," he tells her, his voice low and authoritative, "do you understand darling?" Her lip quivers as she tries to give him a somewhat defiant look but she fails miserably, "Yes," she whispers.

Coriolanus hums, pleased at how well this is going for him, but he should backtrack a little, soothe over her wounds. "What are you reading?" He nods towards the book in her lap, the book that Petunia is napping on top of. Soarynn's fingers absentmindedly trace over the letters of the page, "It's a romance book."

Romance, what a horrible genre.

"How interesting," he states, taking one more step until his shoes are next to her dress that's pooled around her on the floor, "you've been doing a lot of reading since you got here, most children from the District don't even know how to read." That seems to knock her down a few pegs which is good in his opinion, always good to remind her of her place, "Two has the best education compared to the other Districts," she repeats, straight from what he's ordered every educator in Two to tell it's students.

She's not wrong though, Two receives the best education, which isn't a lot, but it's better than other Districts like Twelve. Mostly because Two is where the Capitol gets most of its Peacekeeper force and having a bunch of idiots with guns is less than ideal for Coriolanus who would very much like to keep his country under control.

"Indeed they do," he agrees, "I've just never seen someone read as much as you do." From what he's been told, she's gone through a lot of books since she arrived in the President's Mansion. A small blush creeps across Soarynn's cheeks and she brushes her hair behind her ears, a habit he's noticed she does whenever she's nervous.

"We're having dinner tonight, just the two of us," he tells her, leaving no room for argument, "outside in the gardens, six o'clock."

He can see a wave of confusion wash over Soarynn's face since not once have they had dinner together just the two of them but Coriolanus needs to start utilizing his little wife in every way he possibly can.

So he's going to start with dinner.

He doesn't leave her room to argue, simply turning on his heel and making his way out of the library, "And the cat can't come," he calls before slamming the doors shut.

꧁ ꧂

Soarynn is a vision.

She's cleaned up exceptionally well for dinner tonight which means she most likely mentioned it to Eudora who insisted that she look her absolute best for her husband.

Soarynn's hair has been pulled back into a ponytail with a pink ribbon tying it up. Her face has a hint of blush, adding some more color to her tan skin. Her dress is also pink, taken in at the waist to show off her frame and it's sleeveless, showing off her arms. It's warm enough to still have dinner outside without needing a heavy coat and Coriolanus enjoys hosting parties and gatherings throughout the summer.

Soarynn's only been to a few of his famous garden parties but she has yet to be granted the privilege of seeing his greenhouse filled with his precious roses.

"You look beautiful," he tells her, resting a hand on her bare shoulder. She slightly tenses but pushes a smile to her face, "Thank you." It seems her lessons in etiquette have been paying off nicely. He guides them through the gardens, pointing out specific plants or sculptures every now and then. Soarynn doesn't say much, just nodding along with his words while she looks up at him. He only looks down at her once and it hits him once again how young she is.

So young and naive, pure and ripe for the taking.

"What's that?" They're just nearing the pavilion when they come to a halt by the tall shrubs, "That's my maze," he says, "in the center, there's a courtyard with a statue." This seems to fascinate Soarynn because she goes to step toward the maze but Coriolanus is hungry so he's quick to latch onto her wrist, pulling her back into him, "Perhaps we'll explore the maze after we have dinner," he suggests.

That seems to be enough for Soarynn who nods and follows him to the pavilion where a lovely spread has been laid out for them. Platters covered in cheeses, crackers, meats, and breads, paired with olives, grapes, and jams.

Coriolanus helps Soarynn into her seat before taking his own and he raises his glass of wine, "To the future." Soarynn is hesitant to raise her own glass, probably because she doesn't partake in drinking, "To the future," she says softly although she does not sound like she believes it.

They dig into the platters and Coriolanus watches Soarynn try every jam that's been laid out for her. She scrunches her face when she tastes something she doesn't like but he also notes how her elbows never rest on the table, another sign that she's been doing well in her lessons on how to behave like a proper Capitol lady.

"So your cat, how old is she?"

Coriolanus hadn't spared the cat a glance if he was being honest. He signed the papers that needed to be signed and made sure that his wife was given the most perfect cat in the entire world before he forgot all about it. Simple yet effective.

Soarynn perks up at the mention of her pet, "Petunia is six weeks old, which is young but she's very smart. She even knows how to do tricks!"

Coriolanus raises his eyebrows at this bold statement, he highly doubts that Petunia is as smart as Soarynn claims but knowing tricks is something worth noting, "I see. You know, I could get you horses, you could go riding every afternoon if you wished." They'd have to build stables but there's more than enough land surrounding the President's Mansion to do so.

Her face slightly falls, "Oh. Um, no thank you."

Now he's confused. "Do you not like horses?"

Soarynn picks at her plate, not hungry anymore it seems, "I've never seen a horse before, at least, not in real life. I've seen the ones on the Avenue." The Avenue of Tributes is a well-known spot in the Capitol where Tributes for the Hunger Games are paraded down the Avenue, allowing the Capitolites a first look at the fresh blood. The Tributes are brought down on chariots pulled by beautiful horses and it seems that they've managed to catch Soarynn's attention.

"We'll have to go to the horse races," he decides, taking a sip of his wine, "you can go down to the track before the race and meet the horses and their jockeys." Being President means shaking a lot of hands that belong to people you don't quite care about which include the men who ride racehorses. Still, Coriolanus enjoys the races mostly for the social aspect though.

Soarynn hums and her eyes wander around the pavilion, a large marble structure that's been here since the Mansion was built. Coriolanus rarely dines here but tonight is a special occasion. It's normally occupied by the older generation when he holds gatherings, all the old women sit and grumble about the younger women and what they're wearing and how "scandalous" it is.

"I like this dress, is it new?"

Of course, it's new but Soarynn doesn't seem to be trying to engage in any form of conversation. She looks down at her dress and nods, "Yes. Eudora bought it special for me to wear tonight. She says I should try to talk to you more."

Coriolanus makes a mental note to give Eudora a raise because the woman is doing charity work at this point guiding Soarynn through this marriage. He grunts in approval, "You most certainly should. We've been married for two months and yet I know little to nothing about you."

Coriolanus doesn't quite care to learn much about Soarynn, just what makes her tick, what makes her cry. What he can use against her.

She looks somewhat caught and her hands grab at the table cloth, twisting it in every direction, "I miss my family," she says softly, "I...I know I shouldn't, and that I should be very grateful for all you've done for me," it sounds as if she's reading off a script, "but I don't know anyone here and I'm quite lonely."

Well, he certainly wasn't expecting that.

Coriolanus can see tears welling in Soarynn's eyes and he can't have her crying, he's never been good at emotions, especially coming from a woman. He quickly reaches across the table and takes one of her hands into his, giving it a gentle squeeze, "Then I'll introduce you to people your age, make you the most well-connected woman in Panem. You're the First Lady darling, act like it, embrace it, you have the world at your fingertips. All you have to do is ask me for something and it shall be yours."

That seems to strike something within Soarynn because her eyes twinkle a little bit at his words as if something is brewing beneath her surface. She looks down at their intertwined hands before looking up at him, "Anything?"

He nods, "Anything."

Soarynn sits back in her chair, her hand slipping out of his when she does so, "I want a room to paint in," she says, "a big room with lots of windows so I can have a lot of natural light. And I want more mystery books in the library, I've already read all the ones we have."

A grin curls across his lips at the demanding woman his wife has suddenly become. She's sinking into her role as his wife and First Lady it seems and he's more than happy to feed into her little fantasy so long as she behaves. He chuckles, sliding his hand back over to his side of the table, "Very well, I'll have a room cleared out for you on the West Wing of the Mansion, near my study. And I'll have more books brought in for you."

Soarynn seems pleased with the confirmation, shocked even that it was this easy to get what she wanted. "Good. Now why don't you tell me about your day?"

꧁ ꧂

Coriolanus can't remember the last time he actually walked through the maze. But Soarynn was insistent on seeing the statue in the center so he humored her and besides, dinner was more than plesant. She immediatley opened up to him once he granted her wishes, asking about his day, listening attentively, complimenting the food he chose for them tonight.

A world of a difference compared to the girl he married two months ago.

"How do you get the hedges to grow so tall?"

Coriolanus looks down at Soarynn who's still holding onto his arm as he guides them through the maze and he chuckles, "I don't know darling, you'll have to ask the gardeners." Her eyes are wide with fascination as they stroll through the maze, and she gasps when they finally reach the center, "Oh, it's so big."

Coriolanus nearly forgot what the statue looked like but it's clear as day that it's a marble statue of a very well sculpted man, a man who has a similar resemblace to him is he says so himself.

Soarynn pulls away from him to get a closer look, her finger tips gripping the edge of the statue's marble platform, "Where did you find this?" She asks him, looking up at him from over her shoulder. Coriolanus shoves his hands in his pockets and sighs, "It's supposedly from before Panem was Panem, before the fires and the floods came. That's what I was told at least."

Part of Coriolanus thinks that he was fed a load of bullshit about this statue, but, it's a good center piece for his maze, so he'll keep it. He takes another step towards Soarynn until he's right behind her and he slips his hands around her waist, drawing a gasp from her lips.

They never had sex on their wedding night, but he's willing to overlook that for the sanctity of their marriage.

He noses the soft skin on her neck and inhales that sweet scent of vanilla that seems to cling to her. "You know, we never got properly accustomed to each other on our wedding night," he murmurs agasint her neck.

The entire reason they decided to forego their wedding night festitivtes was for the sole reason of Soarynn being absolutely terrified of sleeping in the same room as him. She was fine at the wedding, but the second they got inside the Mansion, the girl was a mess, shaking and whimpering like some wounded animal. Coriolanus had just handed her off to Eudora and went to bed, not wanting to deal with the tears that would come should he try and fuck her.

But now he's ready.

"I um...I thought you didn't want anything to do with me," she whispers, recalling the harsh words he had mumbled while walking away from her that night. Coriolanus presses a kiss right under her ear and he feels her shiver, "A man can change his mind darling. And besides, what would everyone say if they found out that Coriolanus Snow's wife refused to sleep with him? They might peg you for a...whore," he tacks on some heft to the last word, "some slut who's been unfaithful to me and didn't stay pure."

Soarynn whimpers and he takes it as a sign to suck on her skin hard, leaving behind a dark shaded bruise, "I...I'm not a whore," she gasps, her hands finding his and tugging on them but Coriolanus isn't budging. "Oh really?" He taunts, shoving his leg between hers, "we all know how you District folk like to keep busy and your Father was in charge of Peacekeepers. Who's to say that you never gave them a little taste of what's in between your legs hmm?"

His bites her ear lobe, tugging the skin between his teeth and Soarynn cries out, bucking agasint him, trying to break free, "I didn't!" She cries, her voice desperate and breathy, "I never slept with anyone, I saved myself for marriage."

That's all he wanted to hear.

He presses a hand agasint her stomach, feeling the warmth of her skin through the fabric of her dress, "Good," he says quietly, his lips ghosting the shell of her ear, "because one day, I'm going to put a baby inside of you, and I can't have myself worrying about you giving birth to some bastard." Soarynn goes quiet, those words seem to be sinking in for her, the gravity of what they mean.

"You want to have a family with me?" She whispers, looking up at him from over her shoulder. They're inches apart, the tension is thick. He licks his lips, "Yes. I need an heir, and I'd do well to give you a daughter to take care of as well, keep you busy."

Soarynn scrunches her nose, "But you're getting me a horse, why do I need to have a daughter as well?"

He smiles at her naive way of thinking, she's still so young, so unaware of her place in society. He places a soft kiss to her temple, his hand rubbing circles on her stomach, imnaging how it'll feel when her skin is stretched over their child, "Because every woman needs a child, something to love and nurture, hmm? And we need to keep the bloodline strong, you're a Snow darling, and as the First Lady of Panem, there's certain expectations for you to provide me with children."

He doesn't mention how he knows exactly how fertile Soarynn is right now, how young and moldable she is. Getting her pregant now would be the best thing he could possibly do for her, keeping her busy and latched onto him.

But what he said seems to sit right with Soarynn because she's all sappy and asking for more things which he easily agrees too so long as she keeps her promise to provide him with an heir.

It's a sweet promise really, a sweet, sweet promise.

| Part 1. |

| tumblr oneshot/drabble |

[slaymitchabernathy]

Professor Snow

The lecture hall is large, every seat filled.

Students nervously whisper to one another, glancing down at the empty podium from time to time. Rumors fly around the room a mile a minute.

It’s the first day of classes at the University and everyone is nervous.

Rightfully so. For taking a class from Professor Snow is a surefire way to fail.

He’s been given the title of the toughest Professor at the University, known for being ruthless with his grading and relentless with his teaching tactics.

Which is why Coriolanus Snow strolls into the hall at a leisurely pace, setting his briefcase down on his wooden desk and slowly pulling out the contents. He’s in no rush.

He grabs a fresh piece of chalk and turns to the large board, not a speck of dust on it. A clean slate.

“My name is Professor Snow,” he says, not bothering to look back at his class, they’re all the same his students, nervous yet eager to be the best, to prove themselves amongst their peers and the Capitol elite.

“You will address me as such,” he continues, writing his name on the board, “our class meets on Wednesdays and Fridays, do not be late, and do not think my class is one you can skip. I will not wait for you to catch up.”

He glances over his shoulder and smirks at the crestfallen faces of his students, all of whom despise a Friday lecture but he doesn’t care. He already graduated and got his degree.

“This is Humanities and Ethics,” he says, finally turning around to gaze up at a class full of students, “this is the highest course level you can take which means you all either studied hard or passed with sheer luck. We’ll find out which one very soon,” he mumbles the last words as he steps up to the lecture podium.

“My class requires a textbook, I also suggest you take notes because as I said before, I will not wait for you and I will not repeat myself. I do not offer extra credit or make-up assignments, you either pass or you fail.”

Several students swallow and nervously eye each other. He can feel the tense energy in the room, everyone wanting to be the best.

He has yet to actually meet a student who can meet his expectations let alone surpass them.

“Now, let’s begin to discuss our first topic, a topic I am well known for due to my family legacy. The Hunger Games.”

꧁ ꧂

Coriolanus hands out the syllabus as his students slowly shuffle out of the lecture hall, most of them not even making eye contact after the hour-and-a-half lecture he just delivered. That suits him just fine, he’s not here to make friends.

A few young girls shuffle towards him, talking in hushed whispers and he manages to catch the last of their words before they reach for a syllabus, “…going to ask my advisor if I can drop the class.”

Coriolanus grins, there’s always those few students who have bitten off more than they can chew, not showing up to the rest of his lectures after being able to drop the class. It happens every year, coming back the next week to a few empty seats. Thinning out the weakest of the herd.

The girls take the syllabus from him with defeated faces but a soft voice causes him to look up from his task, “Thank you.”

This girl is stunningly beautiful, with long blonde hair and startling blue-gray eyes. She could be a model and yet she just listened to him talk about children murdering each other for over an hour. Well, there’s one in every group he supposes.

He simply nods before handing the paperwork to the next student who looks like they’re on the verge of tears.

But a certain scent lingers when she leaves with her friends.

The scent of vanilla.

꧁ ꧂

꧁ Three Months Later ꧂

Coriolanus sits in his office with piles of paperwork surrounding him on his desk. It’s finals season and everyone is losing their minds.

All of his students have been showing up to class with tired eyes and empty brains. They’ll probably hold off on doing their final project for him until the last second, thinking they can slide by.

It happens every year and almost all of his students fail every year. There are the few that slip by of course, but he holds no sympathy for people who procrastinate.

The sound of rain from outside his office window nearly lulls him to sleep, it’s nearly ten o’clock on a Friday evening and here he is grading papers when he should be at home having a drink.

The life of an educator.

A soft knock at the door pulls him away from his grading and he clears his throat, “Come in.”

The door slowly opens to reveal one of his students, one of his more promising students to put it plainly which surprises him.

It’s Soarynn Nightingale, the beautiful blonde girl he noticed on the first day of class. All her friends dropped the course but she stayed, sitting in the front row, always taking diligent notes and asking questions.

She’s the rare bird who possesses both brains and beauty.

“Professor Snow? I’m sorry to bother you sir, but I just had a quick question about the final project.”

He raises his eyebrows, none of his students have approached him about the project yet, too scared or too lazy. Either one will lead them to fail. But not Soarynn.

He nods and gestures for her to take a seat, “Make it quick.”

Her eyes slightly widen but she shuts the door behind her and slides into the seat across from him, brushing her hair behind her ears, “Well, I was actually wondering if you could read over my essay portion of the project, critique it if you could,” she says softly.

Coriolanus leans back in his seat, looking her up and down for a moment. She’s dressed in a blue sweater with her hair pulled away from her face today. She’s probably wearing leather boots to go along with the tote bag she carries around everywhere on campus.

“What makes you think I’d critique your essay?” He asks, a bit of arrogance in his tone but he has the power here. Soarynn frowns and fidgets in her seat, “Well…well you never seem to have an issue critiquing us when we’re in class,” she points out.

She’s got him there.

Coriolanus scoffs a laugh and shakes his head, “We are not in class Ms. Nightingale. It’s late on a Friday night and you’ve come to ask me to read over your essay out of the sheer kindness of my heart.”

“I never said you were kind.”

She’s quick. But he can be quicker.

“Give it to me,” he holds out his hand, “before I change my mind and deem this a waste of my time.”

Soarynn reaches into her bag and hands him a few sheets of paper, her neat handwriting scrawled across the pages. He scans over the essay, searching for weak points and he finds quite a few by the time he’s finished.

He looks up to find her anxiously watching from the edge of her seat. She probably worked all day on this.

“Your argument is weak,” he states, tossing it towards her, “you seem afraid to speak your mind. This is your essay, your argument, defend it. Believe it.”

Soarynn frowns and takes the papers from the edge of his desk, “But I do believe it,” she says, “the Hunger Games are unethical. Anyone with an ounce of kindness can see that.”

Coriolanus smirks, “Well as you previously stated, I am not kind, nor do I find your argument a compelling one. If you want any hope of passing this portion of the final, you’ll change your argument and write the essay again but this time, from the opposite side. Tell me why we should have the Hunger Games.”

Soarynn shakes her head and shoves her papers back into her bag, “We shouldn’t have them. Killing innocent children for pageantry and sport is wrong.”

“Why is it wrong? This is to remind the Districts of their place. They lost the war, they pay the price.”

“But their children didn’t fight in the war,” she shoots back, “they were innocent. And if the Capitol had lost and it was our children in that arena then it would mean that we’re no better than the lowest of District citizens.”

Coriolanus studies her for a moment. She has a very bright mind and she’s passionate which is rare to have both. But she’s a rare bird, Soarynn Nightingale. “Perhaps you’ve chosen the wrong line of profession,” he finally says, “this line of work is…tricky if you have too much of a moral compass. Perhaps you’d be better suited to accounting or history.”

A look of hurt washes over Soarynn’s face and he sees a hint of tears in her eyes, “You’re a whole lot like your mother,” he muses, “I remember her and her righteous heart, always wanting to help others. She didn’t care for the Games either if I can recall although I was rather young and she was not yet pregnant with you. But like I said, it’s your essay, Ms. Nightingale, so do what you want with it but that is my opinion.”

Soarynn sniffles and wipes her eyes with the back of her hand, “Thank you for your time,” she whispers, gathering her things.

Coriolanus finds himself feeling…bad about hurting her feelings even though she did it to herself. He sighs, rubbing his temples, it’s too late for this shit but here he is, still at work. “Let me drive you home,” he offers, pushing himself to stand after many hours of sitting, “I assume you don’t have a ride at this hour?”

Soarynn stops in her tracks, her hand wrapped around the door handle and her eyes wide, “No,” she says slowly, “my father has a late business meeting tonight.”

Coriolanus hums, he figured as much. “Alright. I’ll drive you home then, don’t want you out on the rainy streets this late at night.”

“I don’t want to trouble you, sir.”

He shakes his head, gathering his paperwork and closing up his briefcase before grabbing his coat off the hook, “I insist. You’re still on Cornelia Street right?”

Soarynn looks surprised that he remembers but Coriolanus was dragged to the Nightingale townhouse one too many times by his father to have dinner with Glen Nightingale and then talk business afterward. He had to be at least ten years old when Mrs. Nightingale was pregnant with Soarynn.

Right before the war.

“I am,” she confirms, opening the door for both of them.

They walk down the hallways in silence, only their footsteps making noise.

Coriolanus guides them to the back parking lot where his car is parked, opening the passenger door for Soarynn who slips in and quietly thanks him.

Coriolanus gets into the car with a tired sigh, turning the keys and listening to his car rumble to life. “I’m surprised you’re here so late, most students have already gone home,” he says, looking over his shoulder to reverse the car.

Soarynn nods and looks out the window once he pulls away from the building, raindrops sliding down the glass separating them from the chilly winter air, “I was in the library,” she explains, brushing her hair behind her ears again, “studying for some upcoming exams for my other classes.”

Coriolanus doesn’t quite care about any classes that aren’t his, not when he isn’t tasked with also being an academic advisor but for the sake of small talk and politeness, he’ll ask her more about her classes.

“What other classes are you taking?”

“Panem History, Panem Architecture, I’m also taking a Chemistry class from Dr. Gaul.”

Coriolanus turns right and raises his eyebrows, “Dr. Gaul hmm? She’s a tricky one, always gave me a hard time during my mentorship.”

Soarynn glances over at him, her interest piqued, “You had a mentorship under Dr. Gaul?”

Coriolanus nods, drumming his fingers on the steering wheel, “I did,” is all he says.

He’s not willing to get into the gritty parts of his childhood, the war, the Hunger Games, mentoring some girl from Twelve and then following her like a love-sick puppy only to be tricked by her.

When he came back from Twelve, he was a new man. The Victor.

Dr. Gaul mentored him, he was even a Game Maker for a while before he decided to become a Professor.

“But I’m planning on getting into politics,” he adds while turning onto Cornelia Street, “this country is too far gone. It needs new leadership.”

Soarynn hums, probably not too involved or interested in politics. “My father says things were better before the war, people in the Capitol have more power now.”

“The Capitol had more power,” he corrects her, the car slowing to a stop in front of the Nightingale townhouse, “even with the Games, we’re still too lenient on the Districts. But that’s a conversation for a different class from a different Professor.”

Soarynn studies his face for a moment and he studies hers. It’s dark in his car aside from the glow of the street lamp but even in the worst lighting, she’s absolutely beautiful.

“Goodnight, Professor Snow.”

“Goodnight, Ms. Nightingale.”

He watches her get out of the car and walk up to the front door, making sure she makes it inside safely before driving away.

A rare bird indeed.

꧁ ꧂

“As this semester comes to an end, so does this class.”

Coriolanus pretends not to hear the many relieved sighs from his students as he paces in front of them, their final grades written down on the papers in his hand, “Your final grades for this class have been written down on the essay portion of your final project. If you are unsatisfied with your grade you may take it up with the Dean.”

It’s a Friday afternoon and the winter holidays are about to commence, all his students are anxious to get out of here but he has all the time in the world. At least until the clock strikes three o’clock.

“I hate to think this is goodbye,” he continues, “so it’s not. We’ll have one last lecture before you all run off to go enjoy your break.”

A collective groan fills the room and Coriolanus grins with glee. It’s so fun to diminish the younger generation.

He lectures them about small things like the inner workings of the Hunger Games, things he worked on under Dr. Gaul’s mentorship to make sure no one like his Tribute could ever win the Games again.

He paces while he talks, his eyes focused mainly on the floor beneath him or the wall in front of him but every once in a while his gaze wanders to the girl in the front row.

Soarynn.

Her eyes are trained on him, sharp but not calculating like his own.

He finishes with enough time to hand out their final grades, watching the crestfallen faces grow across the class when they realize they’ve failed. There are a few who wear triumphant grins, the few who actually paid attention and learned have been rewarded with a passing grade.

“Class dismissed,” he finally says, gathering his things into his briefcase. He has to swing by his office to grab a few binders before he himself can head home.

He follows the sea of students down the hallway, listening to them discuss their holiday plans, “Professor Snow?”

He looks over his shoulder to find Soarynn walking towards him, a determined look on her face, “I was hoping to talk to you about my final grade,” she says, holding up her essay.

Coriolanus chuckles and gestures towards his office, “Let’s discuss it somewhere private then. Grades are to be kept confidential.”

Soarynn nods and follows him into his office, closing the door behind her. It’s a bleak winter day from what he can see from out his window, there might even be some snow within the week.

“What about your grade did you wish to discuss?” He asks as he opens up his desk drawer, fishing out two binders with reports he’ll have to fill out for the yearly evaluations.

Soarynn makes herself comfortable in the seat he offered to her about a week ago, but this time she looks less nervous and more pissed off.

“You gave me an eighty-nine as my final grade,” she says, crossing her arms. Coriolanus grunts in approval, “Yes I did. The highest grade amongst your peers. You should be very proud.”

Soarynn scoffs and looks up at him, her eyes narrowing, “If I don’t have a ninety or above, it will impact my overall grade average from all of my classes. You’re the only Professor who didn’t give me a ninety or above.”

So even Dr. Gaul gave her a good grade.

A rare bird indeed.

Coriolanus sighs and places the binders into his briefcase, “Ms. Nightingale, there is nothing I can do to change your grade. Tonight I will write my final report for all of your grades and submit it to the Dean tomorrow. It’s out of my hands.”

Soarynn shakes her head, leaning on the edge of her seat, “There has to be something that can be done. Please, I need a higher grade. Just one more point. I even redrafted my essay portion after consulting you for advice. Who else in class can say they went the extra mile?”

Coriolanus watches her skirt rise higher and higher up her thighs unbeknownst to her in her moment of stress. But it does something to him.

Unlocks something within him.

How many times has he watched her twirl that blonde hair around her finger? How many times has she giggled at a male classmate's joke before class started? How many times has she batted her eyelashes at him after asking him a question?

He leans up against his desk, “You’re willing to go the extra mile then?”

“Yes.”

“Do whatever it takes?”

“Yes.”

He nods, letting out a deep sigh, “Lock the door.”

Soarynn blinks once, then twice, “Pardon?”

He sneers, “You heard me, go lock the door if you’re so desperate to improve your grade.”

Soarynn looks over at the door and then back up at him, the realization dawning on her face, “Who the fuck do you think you are?” She asks, standing up so quickly that the chair tips over, “You really think I would sleep with you to improve my grade?”

Coriolanus doesn’t say anything while she continues to spew out nonsense and insults at him, “I am not some cheap whore you can just boss around,” she snaps, pointing an accusing finger at him, “I am a Nightingale.”

Coriolanus takes a step towards her, noticing how she immediately takes a step back, “Let me tell you what you are Soarynn,” he says slowly, just like giving a lecture, “you are a very pretty girl, with a charming personality and a dazzling smile. You’re from a prominent family, you’re well-mannered and in your prime. You’ve probably kissed a few boys but it’s never gone further than that because, above all, you’re a good girl.” He keeps walking towards her, smirking when she almost trips over the chair to back away from him.

“You’re a good girl who’s waiting until marriage because you’re right, you are not a whore. But you will never be anything but a pretty little wife for your future husband.”

He’s backed her into a literal corner now, towering over her while tears fall from her eyes, “And as I mentioned when I drove you home, I plan on getting involved in politics, more specifically becoming President of Panem and I can’t do that without a good woman by my side.”

Soarynn’s eyes widen and her breaths grow shaky at his words, his silent proposition. “I could report you,” she whispers in a trembling voice, their faces inches apart, “you’ve insulted me and my character. You could be fired and arrested.”

He reaches out to take a piece of her hair between his fingers, feeling how soft it is, “But you won’t. You won’t because you’re also a smart girl and you know that being seen with a man like me could be all you need for a life full of luxury.”

Several tears fall down her face and he reaches into his pocket to pull out a handkerchief, wiping them away as soon as they appear.

“So it begs the question, are you willing to do whatever it takes?” He whispers, looking down at her, “Because if you do report me, I can make things very difficult for you darling. And I promise that once you graduate, no one will take you seriously. A pretty thing like you has been bred to be a trophy wife, not a working woman.”

Soarynn bats his hand away, glaring up at him with her stormy eyes, “You’re a monster.”

He grins, “I thought we already came to the conclusion that I do not possess any kindness.”

He wedges a foot between her own two feet, jamming his knee right below her covered cunt and Soarynn gasps, trying to push him away, “If you agree to this,” he says lowly, leaning down so his lips can brush the shell of her ear, “we can take things slowly. We can be smart. You can even graduate before I make my final move.”

She’s not getting out of this, one way or another, Coriolanus will have Soarynn Nightingale as his bride.

Soarynn whimpers, her hands clutching his white button-up shirt with frustration and fear, “I…I can’t,” she gasps, “I’m saving myself for marriage.”

Coriolanus grabs her chin with his thumb and index finger, craning her neck to look up at him, “Your future husband is standing right in front of you.”

꧁ ꧂

꧁ One Month Later ꧂

Moans fill his office, along with the creaking of his desk while Coriolanus fucks Soarynn against it.

He’s got her bent over, one leg propped up on the hardwood piece of furniture so he can fuck her even deeper.

This is by far, his favorite position to have her in.

And he’s got her in all sorts of positions these days.

Soarynn crumpled just as he predicted she would. She accepted his offer, the offer to eventually marry him should he raise her grade and make sure that she passes the rest of her classes with flying colors. Coriolanus has more than enough influence over the other Professors, and Soarynn is an excellent student regardless of his whispering in their ears.

But it’s all part of their deal.

Right now, he’s laying out the groundwork.

Soarynn will graduate at the end of the year, and he’ll turn in his official resignation to the University before announcing his campaign to run for President. He’ll make an official move on Soarynn, a public one that won’t make any fuss since she’ll just have graduated and be on the market for a good husband.

And her father will be pleased that she managed to marry a man of such stellar citizenship, not to mention a man who comes from a family with friendly ties to his own.

In the meantime, he’s been having his fun with her. Getting fully acquainted with the body of Soarynn Nightingale. He fucked her after she agreed to his deal, watched her bleed over his cock like a little virgin whore.

She cried afterward, the guilt and fear overwhelming her but he was quick to wipe those tears and whisper comforting words in her ear.

Coriolanus didn’t intend on torturing the girl, no, he had nothing against her. He just wanted to constantly be pressed against her, preferably with his cock buried in her tight, weeping cunt.

Once she warmed up to him it was much easier to get into her pants. She’d often get nervous about getting caught, both by her father and anyone at the University but Coriolanus assured her time and time again that they’d be fine. She was an adult and a consenting one at that.

Should they get caught, he’d get off without so much as a slap on the wrist. He could even throw her under the bus, claiming she came onto him in hopes of bringing her grades up.

No one would believe her.

“Fuck,” she gasps, arching her back when he lands a hard thrust into her cunt. She’s been learning what she likes more and more, letting him mold her into the perfect little sex doll to fuck whenever he wants.

Sometimes he’ll fuck her before his lecture to get out any tension. Other times he’ll fuck her late at night when he should be grading papers.

His favorite thing to do is play with her in public spaces, offer to tutor her in the library while pumping two fingers in and out of her cunt.

Soarynn is a slut through and through and he’s more than happy to take advantage of that fact, teasing her, getting her riled up before classes.

“Come on darling,” he taunts, “answer the question, which District surrendered first?”

Soarynn had come to him asking for help on a history assignment, so naturally, he had to find some excuse to fuck her. Making her do the assignment while painting her walls with his cum sounded like the perfect studying session.

Soarynn whimpers, her hands grasping at the papers she had placed on his desk, all the questions still unanswered, “I…I don’t know Coriolanus,” she whines, her walls clenching tighter around him.

He slaps her ass hard, leaving a mark and making her yelp, “When classes are in session what do you call me darling?”

He loves to punish her for little things like slipping up his name at the wrong times. Soarynn pants, her hips meeting his with every thrust, she’s getting closer to her orgasm and he is too, “Professor Snow," she whines, her nails gripping the mahogany, “I call you Professor Snow.”

Coriolanus nods, pleased she remembered the proper way to address him. They can’t afford for her to slip up in front of the wrong people, so unless they’re behind closed doors, she uses his proper title. It doesn’t help that it gives him a weird power trip, making him feel above her.

“Very good,” he says, picking up the pace, “it was District Thirteen that surrendered first,” he recalls, “the rest followed shortly after.”

Coriolanus brings one hand down to rub her clit, earning him a shriek since it’s arguably the most sensitive part of her body. “Oh please,” she begs, looking at him from over her shoulder, batting those blue-gray eyes, “please let me cum Professor Snow.”

Coriolanus scoffs and pulls his hand away from her clit to shove her head against the desk, giving him a new and better angle to fuck her in, “You’re too smart for your own good sometimes,” he tells her, “fucking teasing me.”

Soarynn’s moans are a sweet symphony as she tumbles towards her orgasm, “You…you like it though,” she argues, her assignment long forgotten.

Coriolanus hums, his other hand holding her waist tightly, he’ll probably leave bruises but he doesn’t care. He’s getting closer to his orgasm as well which is perfect timing since they both have a class very soon. He lands a few more pointed thrusts into her cunt, targeting her sweet spot every time, making her see stars.

Soarynn moans, her back arches, and her walls flutter around him as she finally reaches her peak. Coriolanus is close after her, his cum leaking from her cunt when he pulls out with a sigh. It’s a sight he’ll never get tired of seeing.

Soarynn rests her head against the desk, catching her breath while he begins the clean-up process, wiping both of them down to the best of his abilities. Soarynn lets out a whimper when he goes to clean her up but he doesn’t let her sensitivity stop him. She belongs to him now so he’ll do whatever he pleases.

“You’ll have to finish the rest of that assignment on your own,” he tells her, throwing another tainted handkerchief into the waste bin. Soarynn finally stands up, pulling her skirt back on along with her tights, “I’m so glad I came to you for help,” she says with a roll of her eyes.

Since their relationship took a rather sharp turn from an academic standpoint to a romantic one, Soarynn has let more of her real personality shine and he’s learned that she can be quite sarcastic as well as feisty when she really wants something.

She’s still pliant and submissive, but once she warms up to him she can be rather pleasant to be around. Coriolanus scoffs and wraps a hand around her neck, pulling her against him, “I’d argue that you’re always glad to come to me for any of your needs darling,” he purrs, grinning when she turns red. Soarynn is easy to put back into her place. A little humiliation is all it takes.

“I’m going to be late,” is all she has to say.

He hums, inspecting her face for a moment to make sure he hasn’t left any telltale signs that she just got fucked but he finds none. She just looks beautiful but that’s nothing new.

“Then I’ll see you later this afternoon,” he murmurs, explicitly looking forward to his last lecture of the day since it means Soarynn will be in attendance. Soarynn nods, giving him a tight-lipped smile, “Yes you will,” she confirms.

He can see the conflict in her eyes again, wondering if what they’re doing is right or wrong. Wondering what she really thinks about him, how she feels about him. It’s a battle she’s been fighting since she came to him about her final grade and he’s quick to remedy it by pressing his lips against hers.

If he’s going to fuck her all the time then he might as well make up for it with a few sweet kisses and a handful of kind words. She feeds off of those, of those promises.

She eagerly returns the kiss, their lips moving in sync. Her fingers tangle in his curls and he groans, he's forgotten how nice it feels to be touched by another person, by a woman. His other hand slides down to her waist, squeezing it. Getting to know Soarynn has been an interesting experience, getting to know her body has been more interesting.

She's so soft, so well-kept, always smelling good. She's a sweet little secret that he's happy to keep in his back pocket. Soarynn sighs into the kiss and he pulls at her bottom lip with his teeth, both of them fighting to land on top but Snow always lands on top.

Laughter can be heard from outside, a group of students passing by, and Coriolanus pulls away from the kiss, looking down at her, "You should get going, wouldn't want a mark on your perfect record." Soarynn rolls her eyes at his teasing, she prides herself on her perfect attendance.

Soarynn nods with a sigh, "Alright, I'll head out first."

Navigating this new relationship has meant dealing with several twists and turns but one thing they could both agree on was never being seen with each other. Neither of them wanted to raise suspicions from other students or faculty members, so when leaving his office or any room after being together, they left separately so as to not raise any suspicions.

It worked out nicely since he always got a good view of her from behind when she walked out.

Coriolanus cards a hand through his curls, glancing in his reflection on the glass of his cabinet that held a variety of photographs and certificates. He looked as handsome as ever.

He looks back over at Soarynn who’s putting her things into her bag, gathering her belongings and her thoughts. She buttons her shirt back up, making sure everything is in place. She puts herself back together at a practiced ease now, they’ve done this so many times it’s muscle memory.

“Good luck on your exam,” he says once she’s finally ready to leave, she gives him a nod and a small smile, more polite than genuine, “Thank you. Good luck with your lecture.”

He nods and watches her slip out of his office, leaving him alone once again. There’s so much to be done between them, setting up the proper place for them to coincidentally run into one another once she’s graduated, making sure nothing slips out.

Coriolanus had worried for a moment that she might run off and tell someone but Soarynn’s got her reputation on the line, and she wouldn’t dare risk it.

He smiles to himself and grabs his briefcase, he’s got her right where he wants her.

꧁ ꧂

꧁ One Year Later ꧂

“Good evening, Mr. Snow.”

Coriolanus gives the doorman a polite nod while walking into his apartment building, a million things on his mind.

Since resigning from his position at the University, he has since announced his campaign for the upcoming Presidential election. He’s already projected to win by a landslide considering how well-liked he is by his peers and the general public.

He’s got the looks, the education, the reputation, and now, the girl.

It all happened so perfectly.

He couldn’t have planned it better himself. And he did plan it.

He met her at the Winter Gala, an event thrown for University students about to graduate in December. She had been wearing red and he was too, it was mere fate that led them to run into each other, Soarynn on the arm of her father, Coriolanus eager to impress and compliment her on her studies.

Glen Nightingale had greeted him like an old friend and he practically was, he was a carbon copy of his father and that seemed to be close enough to Glen who insisted to his daughter that Coriolanus was the type of man she should marry.

Soarynn had hushed him off, claiming she was just focused on graduating, playing the uninterested schoolgirl part exceptionally well.

But by some miracle, Coriolanus managed to convince her to dance with him. It wasn’t frowned upon for students and faculty to mingle at events like this, not when the students were mere weeks away from graduating.

He got her a drink, made her laugh, the whole nine yards.

By the end of the night, Coriolanus was invited to the Nightingale townhouse for dinner next week after Soarynn recalled Coriolanus so generously taking her home one night the year before. That selfless act of chivalry was all Glen needed to approve of their relationship.

If only he knew that for the past year, his daughter had been stuck on the cock of Coriolanus Snow, his own little fuckdoll to play with whenever he deemed fit.

But over that year he had charmed Soarynn, now he just needed to charm her father.

He’d propose soon enough, right before the elections really picked up to give him some traction. Coriolanus had learned many things since he started dating Soarynn, one of them being that people love a pretty girl. Soarynn was as pretty as they came, endlessly charming, always knowing what to say, how to dress, where to stand.

She was perfect.

Since he began courting her however she’s grown to be a bit more…demanding. Coriolanus expected this, of course, this pushback in his plans. Not that she necessarily hated his plans, not when they included her and meant becoming First Lady, but they were on the same level now it seemed, equals.

He hated it.

With a ten-year age gap, there was room for whispers about the two of them, how Soarynn was far too young to be courting a man at his age but they paid them no mind. There were greater things at hand that people just could not see. Besides, Coriolanus preferred someone younger, more naive, and moldable.

He’s seeing her tonight, taking her out to dinner, and then a show, right where the public can see them. He’s just got to get changed before he can leave to pick her up.

He takes the elevator all the way up to the twelfth floor, making his way into his penthouse apartment where not a soul but him lives. He’s brought Soarynn here a couple of times but he’s in no rush to have her move in with him. Not when they’ll be married sooner than later.

Coriolanus sets his briefcase down in his study before making his way to the bedroom to pick out the proper attire for tonight. He selects a black suit, pairing it with a black tie and a red rose pinned to his lapel.

He spends a thorough amount of time doing his hair, ensuring that every curl is in place before he applies cologne. His face is clean and shaven and he looks exceptionally sharp if he does say so himself.

He grabs his coat before heading back downstairs to the lobby where his car is waiting for him. Now that Coriolanus is a rising politician, he can’t be bothered to drive himself places so now he has a driver.

“The Nightingale residence,” he tells the driver who inquires on where to take him. Over the past few weeks, Coriolanus has grown increasingly close to Glen Nightingale who’s a businessman at heart. Perhaps it has something to do with his past relationship with his father, but Glen is quite welcoming towards Coriolanus.

He had admitted to Coriolanus one night after Soarynn went to bed that he worried about finding Soarynn a suitable match for a husband.

“She’s a Nightingale,” he had said, “and my only daughter. I want her with someone responsible, someone who can take care of her and take care of business. She wants to do all sorts of things to change the world but I don’t want her lifting a finger.”

Coriolanus had assured Glen that his darling daughter wouldn’t have to do a thing as long as she was with him. And he meant it too.

Soarynn was too beautiful a creature to work, even if she wanted to. She often talked about using her degree to do some good in the world, and every time she went on one of her little tangents, Coriolanus would nod and listen, placing a kiss on her cheek and telling her how she already made a difference. No need to run out into the world full of evil, wicked people who would gladly sink their claws into her soft flesh.

Thank goodness he was able to get to her before anyone else could hurt her.

Coriolanus looks out the window as they drive through the Capitol streets, a light snow falling down around them. They're getting close to February and he's getting closer and closer to becoming President. He's running against a few other candidates right now but his advisor Quintus Heavensbee has assured him that they'll all drop out of the race in due time.

He just has to be patient.

꧁ ꧂

"Mr. Snow, how are you feeling about your campaign?"

"Mr. Snow! A quick word if you can!"

Coriolanus and Soarynn ignore the news outlets and their pestering questions as they walk into the restaurant. Soarynn looks like an absolute vision tonight in her pink dress made of silk, clinging to her body in all the right places. She keeps her head high and her hand wrapped around his arm as they finally step inside, safe from the photographic eye, "They're persistent," she comments, "I'll give them that."

Coriolanus helps her slide off her shawl and chuckles, "You'll have to get used to it darling, being First Lady won't be any easier." Soarynn smiles at the thought of being First Lady of Panem, a seed he planted in her head when she was having doubts about their secret relationship.

It slightly backfired on him though. Coriolanus had brought it up as a way to calm her, to assure her that she'd have everything she ever wanted at her beck and call if she were married to the President. All the dresses, jewelry, and shoes she could ever want, he would gladly give her.

Soarynn saw things differently though.

She wanted to help, to make a difference. She wanted to host charity events and make clothes for the poor. She wanted to go to the hospitals and speak with the ill, and hold hands with people nearing death.

Coriolanus simply wished to cart her around, keep her by his side, and show her off when necessary. If he took her to the races, she wanted to free every horse, if he took her to the ballet, she wanted every ballerina to get flowers.

She's got a good heart but heaven knows how fucking annoying it can be for him sometimes to hear her drone on and on about repaying acts of kindness. Hopefully, their future children don't inherit this nagging trait.

The hostess gladly seats them at their regular table, right by the window with an amazing view of the Capitol streets. Drinks are immediately served, wine for Soarynn, whiskey for Coriolanus who's had a rather tiring day.

"How was your interview?" Soarynn asks, bringing the glass to her lips.

Coriolanus sighs, taking a sip of his own drink before answering, "It was rather long if I'm being honest, Quintus said it's only a taste of what's to come for this election season." Soarynn raises her eyebrows, she doesn't dabble in politics, only knowing what Coriolanus or her father tells her.

"Well then you'll be fully prepared for when it's time for things to get serious," she decides. It's adorable really how naive she can be about things like this, always wanting everyone to go home a winner.

He smiles and tilts his head, she looks good tonight with her hair pulled back into a bun, a few pieces framing her face. One thing he appreciates about Soarynn is how classy she is, never too much jewelry or makeup, only things that compliment her natural beauty.

"Yes, well how was your day? I believe you mentioned shopping with your friends if I'm not mistaken." Despite dropping his class, Soarynn's friends managed to graduate and have since spent their days shopping and gossiping. Soarynn enjoys shopping and she certainly is no stranger to gossip, but Coriolanus has made it very clear that more things are expected of her since she's in the public eye.

"I did," she confirms with a nod, "and it was good, we went to a few department stores, I mostly browsed. I got some new shoes though. And I got some things for Petunia."

Petunia, was not something Coriolanus could have planned for if he tried.

When Soarynn graduated back in December, Glen told her she could get whatever she wanted, no budget, no questions. Both Glen and Coriolanus expected her to ask for something extravagant like a trip to a District resort or a car. Instead, she asked for a cat.

A kitten more specifically.

Coriolanus had accompanied her to the pet shop where she managed to pick the only kitten who was actively hissing at him the entire time. Since the moment they met, Petunia has been hellbent on attacking him, batting at his ankles, scratching his leather shoes. She's terribly possessive of Soarynn, hissing at him if he gets too close.

Soarynn thinks it's sweet, Coriolanus thinks it's because Petunia is spoiled rotten with toys and catnip.

Every time he sees the cat she's got a new ribbon wrapped around her neck, prancing around the townhouse like she owns the place. She's in for a rude awakening when Soarynn moves in with him because Petunia will undoubtedly come with her.

"Ah, let me guess, a new collar," he teases, grinning when Soarynn rolls her eyes. "Laugh all you want," Soarynn says, "but she's a Nightingale which means she'll only receive the best of the best."

Coriolanus drums his fingers on the table, he's getting a bit hungry and their waiter has yet to come back to take their orders, "Well I'm sure she'll look adorable in whatever you put her in darling." Coriolanus has learned that it's sometimes best to simply nod and agree with Soarynn on certain things.

He finally spots the waiter and his piercing gaze is more than enough to pin the man down and bring him over to their table. Soarynn hasn't even looked at the menu but that's because Coriolanus always orders for her. She's as spoiled as her cat sometimes.

"My apologies for the wait," their waiter says with an uneasy smile, "what would you two like this evening?"

Coriolanus clears his throat and closes the menu, taking his time. He's got all the time in the world these days. "I'll have the smoked salmon, and she will have the lamb stew." He hands the menus over to the waiter who scurries off to put in their order and he shakes his head, "The service here is getting worse, this will be our last visit," he decides.

Soarynn smirks at his decision, well past questioning his every choice which he appreciates. She used to question everything he did and it got old fast. "Well aren't you starting to sound like a politician," she purrs, her smirk growing bigger when he scoffs.

"I've been making these types of decisions long before deciding to run for President darling," he reminds her, "you forget I used to be a Professor."

Soarynn rolls her eyes before finishing off her glass of wine, "Oh, I remember, how could I forget what a helpful teacher you were?"

Coriolanus gives her a warning look, they're in a public place and she needs to watch her tongue but alcohol always makes her feisty, "Careful Soarynn," is all he says, his voice firm yet calm.

He does his best to look past the events that landed them here but Soarynn loves to remind him of how he "took advantage of her" as if they aren't both in on this little plan.

"You certainly helped yourself," she mumbles.

Coriolanus clenches his jaw, he can't punish her here but he can make her regret saying that once they go back to his penthouse. Until then, he'll play nice and enjoy this dinner he's paying so much for.

Then he can remind her of her place.

꧁ ꧂

Soarynn moans so loud whenever he fucks against her sweet spot. It's an erotic sight to watch her below him, her eyes rolling back, her mouth gaping open, her back arching off the mattress.

"If you knew how to keep your mouth shut then you wouldn't have to be tied up right now," he reminds her, his hand pressing down on her lower abdomen, another thing that makes her go crazy.

Soarynn tries to wiggle her wrists out of the necktie he wrapped them with but she fails once again. "Unfair," she gasps when he latches his lips to her neck, "you're...you're not playing fair Coriolanus."

He sits back up while continuing to fuck her and tuts, shaking his head in a disappointed manner, "You should know by now that I don't play fair darling. At least you've been granted the privilege of calling me by my first name now. Remember what you used to call me?"

His other hand wraps around her neck, squeezing until she can barely breathe, he shakes her head like a doll, "What did you use to call me Soarynn? Use that pretty little head of yours and think."

Soarynn whines, her back arching even more when he picks up the pace, "I...I called you Professor Snow," she moans, her walls tightening around his cock. Coriolanus nods, pleased she can remember something from University.

He leans back down until his lips are hovering over her lips, "And do you know what you'll call me once I put that ring on your finger and I win this election?"

Soarynn squeezes her eyes shut but he knows she's about to reach her orgasm, which means she's desperate and will do anything.

"No," she cries, wiggling against his hold, "I don't know what I'll call you."

Coriolanus smiles, pressing his lips to hers, making for a messy and heated kiss filled with lust.

"You'll call me President Snow."

| tumblr oneshot/drabble |

[slaymitchabernathy]

The Nanny

꧁ One Month Later ꧂

Soarynn studies herself in the vanity mirror.

Would her father be proud of the woman she's become?

She's always tried to make him proud but being fired by the President of Panem is a bit of a letdown, a streak on her perfectly clean record. It's truly humbled her. Which is why today, she has an interview.

An interview for a job that has no emotional reasoning, only logic is involved. She's never been a receptionist before but it seems easy enough and if her skills and personality don't land her the job, then her last name certainly will.

"There are certain perks to being a Nightingale," she says to herself, applying a layer of lipstick.

The first few days after being fired as the Snow's nanny were short of horrible. She cried for hours on end, not necessarily because she got her feelings hurt, but because of the children. She didn't think she'd get so attached, but she did, broke every rule in the book by loving them and caring for them as if she were their mother.

Even though he warned her not to.

In fact, President Snow explicitly told her not to do so and she still did.

She could certainly blame Festus Creed, but at the end of the day, it was her own fault. She didn't grow careless, instead, she cared too much and it cost her the children.

A painful lesson to learn.

She turns on her stool to face Petunia who's been lounging on her bed since they both woke up for the day, "How do I look Petunia?" Her fluffy white cat only meows in response, batting a paw in the air. Soarynn allows herself a small smile, reaching over to scratch behind her ears before getting up to get dressed.

She picked out her outfit last night so she didn't run late. A stylish red dress with a straight neckline and a belt that accentuates her waist, and a pair of black heels. Simple yet classy. She chooses a few pieces of gold jewelry to go along with her outfit, earrings, a simple necklace, and perhaps a ring. She studies her small collection of rings that she's gathered over the years and her eyes land on a ring with a rose adorning it.

She'd be lying if she said it didn't hurt to see it.

Roses now hold a very deep, personal meaning to her.

She decides on a simple gold band and just as she's slipping it on, the doorbell rings.

Soarynn frowns, she had arranged for a driver to pick her up but that's not for at least another thirty minutes. Still, she quickly leaves her closet and makes her way out of her room and into the hallway. She glides down the marble staircase, Petunia hot on her heels to also see who's at the door.

Soarynn quickly runs her fingers through her hair, just in case there's a very attractive man on the other side of the doors who was looking for a wife.

Wouldn't that be wonderful?

The doorbell rings three more times in a row and Soarynn frowns, whoever is on the other side must be in a terrible hurry. She pulls the doors open and can't stop the shock from spreading across her face when she sees a small finger attached to the doorbell, more importantly, who is attached to that little finger.

Celeste smiles up at her, "Soarynn I rang the doorbell!"

Soarynn is at a loss for words when Celeste and Ceraphina rush in to hug her, talking a mile a minute, her hands resting on their blonde curls like it's second nature. She nods along to everything they say, trying to gain her bearings. Never in her life did she think the Snow girls would be at her house. She looks up for a moment and her heart nearly stops at the sight of President Snow standing on her doorstep, Caspian in his arms.

She knows she was hoping for an attractive man looking for a wife, but this is not exactly what she had in mind.

"Did you miss us?"

That question pulls her out of her daze and she nods, looking back down at the girls, "I've missed so you very much," she whispers, getting a bit emotional.

Ceraphina smiles and her attention is quickly drawn to Petunia who's been watching from a safe distance, "Petunia!" It's a mad dash the moment she speaks, Petunia darting into the living room and the girls chasing after her, giggling up a storm.

Soarynn doesn't even know what to do or say so she simply watches President Snow slowly walk up the steps and give her a nod, "May we come in?"

Soarynn focuses on Caspian who's already reaching out for her, "You might as well," she answers, giving Caspian's hand a squeeze, "Momma," he mumbles and President Snow sighs, "I know Cas, I know." His piercing gaze settles back on Soarynn and she feels a shiver travel down her spine, "I was hoping we could talk."

Soarynn swallows, she can't really say no, not to the President of Panem. "Alright." President Snow looks around the foyer of her home wearily as if memories are flashing through his mind of a time when this house was full of life a laughter.

Now it's filled with death and darkness, much like his own home.

"Perhaps we should have this discussion in the study," he suggests, forging forward and leaving her with no option but to follow him. He seems so sure of himself walking through her house, but he's been here before if she can recall, or he at least knew her parents quite well. Caspian lets out several whimpers and whines, flailing in his father’s arms as he carries them through the house.

He leads them to her father's study, a room she hasn't touched in months. He turns on the light and turns to face her, a bit of an uncomfortable look on his face, "I think he wants you to hold him."

"Yes," is all Caspian says and Soarynn is more than happy to oblige, lifting him from his father's arms and pressing a kiss to his head once he's safely in hers, "Oh, I missed you, sweet boy," she whispers. Caspian lifts his head and she grins when she sees that little smile on his face, "Lenny misses," he mumbles. Soarynn raises her eyebrows, "Lenny misses me too? I've missed him quite a lot as well."

Caspian seems content with her confession and rests his head back on her chest, leaving Soarynn to look back up at his father who's watching them with so much conflict behind his eyes. "Let's sit down," he finally says, rounding her father's desk as if he lives here.

Soarynn doesn't fight it though, she just sits down in the chair across from him, trying to forget what happened the last time they were seated like this.

"I have come..." he starts, his teeth clicking when he shuts his mouth, shaking his head, "I...I have come to apologize to you."

Soarynn raises her eyebrows again, "You have come to apologize?"

He nods, seemingly as surprised as she is, "I have," he confirms, "I was wrong for what I did, although I will not apologize for my reasoning." Soarynn furrows her eyebrows at his contradicting words and before she can say anything he holds his hand up, silencing her, "Let me explain my reasoning first, then you can tell me what a horrible human being I am," he says.

He sounds like he's said that a thousand times, always having to explain how he does things and he probably has. Being President means making hard calls, and tough decisions, and someone is always going to be hurt by them. This time, it was Soarynn.

"When I was alerted about the...incident, my main concern was my children. At the end of the day, their safety is my main priority. Not their happiness, not their upbringing, their safety. When I heard about what had transpired feet away from their rooms, no matter who was at fault, I knew their safety had been at risk and that was reason enough for me to dismiss you."

Soarynn looks back down at Caspian, sound asleep in her arms already. He had witnessed the horrific night, and something could've happened, Festus could've acted out of anger and hurt him or the girls.

"That being said, I cannot afford to act off of emotion. I can not afford to get close to anyone, to let anyone in. Not after Livia. So when I dared to break my rules for a moment, when I allowed you to call me by my name and then within the same breath found out about what happened between you and Festus, I knew what had to be done. I knew that by breaking my own rules, there would be consequences. I didn't however, expect to reap them so soon," he admits, sitting back in the chair, "but I was hurt nonetheless."

Soarynn didn't think President Snow was capable of being hurt, not from what she's seen. But perhaps his children are the one thing, the one way to hurt him. They're the one thing he loves and it's the things we love most that destroy us.

She purses her lips, "I understand," she says slowly, "I don't appreciate how rashly you acted and how you went about dismissing me but I do understand how important your children’s safety is. Their safety is important to me too. I would never do anything to endanger them."

He lets out a bitter laugh, rubbing his temples, "I know," he tells her, "I know you wouldn't and I know that you weren't the one who started the entire thing between you and Festus."

Soarynn's eyes widen at his statement. Where was this logic a month ago?

"I...I had my doubts," he says, "not that I didn't believe Festus but it was hard to picture the timid, quiet Soarynn Nightingale throwing herself all over a man who she didn't seem interested in a few hours ago, still, I had my loyalties and I did act rashly. It was partially due to you leaving immediately after which in my eyes, made you look guilty and it also..."

Soarynn watches him struggle to find the words to say, perhaps he's never uttered them before. "It also made me feel like a fool for letting you in and confiding in you. I thought perhaps I had found someone who genuinely cared about the sanctity of my family, someone whose care went further than the surface, so to have Festus whispering those lies in my ear truly clouded my judgment."

Soarynn blinks once, twice. She was not expecting this. None of this in fact. She was supposed to go to an interview and yet here she is, sitting with the man who fired her and managed to break her heart without even being romantically involved with her.

What a terrifying concept.

"But you know now," she says slowly, not entirely trusting herself to speak, "you know what he did to me?"

President Snow nods, a displeased look on his face, "I do," he confirms, "and I'm sorry you had to go through that, alone and without a job on top of that." Soarynn feels her lip tremble but she remains intact, she is not as breakable as he thinks.

"How do you know he's lying and I'm not?"

President Snow sighs, drumming his fingers on the wooden desk, "After I dramatically fired you, the girls were a mess as you briefly witnessed. They were inconsolable, and they refused to speak to me. This went on for several weeks as you can imagine, the tantrums, the crabiness, the distancing. I've hardly been able to recognize my darling daughters," he mumbles, shaking his head, "and I'm the one to blame. But I invited Festus over a few days ago for a drink, I needed to clear my head after the month I'd endured. Looking for a new nanny has proven to be more difficult than I anticipated. You've set our standards quite high," he tells her, a small twinkle in his eyes.

Soarynn feels herself swell with pride at his comment. To know that she's left a lasting mark, a lasting impression on his family is closure enough. But he continues talking, "I brought Caspian with me," he gestures to his sleeping son, "he hasn't been sleeping well since you left. Screaming, crying, the whole nine yards. The moment he saw Festus I saw something I've never seen in Caspian's eyes."

Soarynn peers down at the sleeping angel in her arms, the sweetest boy who has eyes identical to his father’s. She can't imagine what President Snow saw that frightened him so much.

"What did you see?"

"Hate."

His answer is enough to stun her. Caspian isn't capable of hate, he wouldn't hurt a fly let alone have it in him to hate someone.

President Snow nods as if reading her perplexed mind, "Exactly. He refused to look at Festus for the rest of the night until Festus went to tickle him, trying to cheer him up and Caspian pushed his hand away, another thing that stunned me. Then Festus made a few crude comments about you when I mentioned that your departure might be a reason for Caspian's behavior. I called him out on it but he insisted I was just tired and frustrated. When Festus was leaving, he went to give Caspian a friendly squeeze, he's more than used to it," he says, watching Soarynn nod along to his words.

"And then...and then Caspian said two words, and that was all I needed to hear to know that it wasn't you who came onto Festus, but Festus who came onto you and followed you upstairs while everyone else was down at the party."

Her mouth is dry with anticipation but she manages to speak, "What did he say?"

President Snow focuses his gaze on Caspian, a bit of pride in his eyes, "He pushed Festus away again and said: 'Hurt Momma' and I knew there was no one else on the earth that he could consider to be his mother but you."

Soarynn doesn't realize she's crying until a tear lands on top of Caspian's head, causing him to rouse from his sleep and press a hand on her cheek, "Momma." She looks down into his eyes, a loving smile on her face, "I'm right here darling."

"After that, I pushed Festus into telling the truth. He claimed he was drunk as if that made it any better or excused his actions. Then I remembered seeing the bruise on your wrist. I put the rest of the pieces together before taking care of Festus."

Soarynn looks at him from across the desk, both their eyes holding different emotions, "He...he found me when I was leaving Caspian's room. I bumped the doors open trying to get away and Caspian ended up witnessing the whole thing," she gets out, more tears burning as the memories resurface, "I didn't think he'd remember any of it after I got him back to sleep."

A flash of anger passes through his eyes before they return to normal and he clasps his hands, "I can assure you that Festus will be dealt with thoroughly."

Soarynn doesn’t press to find out what he truly means. As long as she doesn’t have to worry about Festus breaking into her home at night, then it’s none of her concern.

They both sit there for a moment, staring at each other as if neither of them truly knows what to make out of the other. For a second when they were dancing, Soarynn thought she had felt something, witnessed something genuine rather than the usual cold facade she was greeted with.

But he’s closed off now, even in the safety of her own home he’s on guard, protecting himself and his children. She can hear the girls giggling in the other room and a few meows of protest from Petunia who’s most likely tired out and given in to their want to play with her.

“Is this all you came for then?” She asks, her voice steadier than she thought it would be. After all these months, President Snow still has the capability of making her nervous. Even in her father’s study.

He shakes his head, clearing his throat while doing so. “No, I…we,” he gestures to himself and then to Caspian, “have come to ask for you to come back to us.”

Soarynn’s heartbeat rapidly increases at the request, at the chance to go back to being with the children. A small part of her worries about what could lie in the future, she could be fired again, humiliated again. And for something she did not do.

But the larger part of her wants nothing more than to wake up and face the new day with the Snow children by her side. The future might be prosperous for her and she’d be a fool to let it slip through her fingers.

“You want me back?”

President Snow nods, a small smile on his lips, “I will not lie and say that the past month has been easy. Eudora has taken on the brunt of caring for the children but she can’t do two things at once forever and there’s no one in this world who can care for them the way you do. The girls won’t accept anyone but you and I’m highly certain that Caspian feels the same way.”

Soarynn almost finds herself nodding to his proposal when she realizes how much time has passed. She’s missed her interview.

“I was supposed to have an interview today,” she says, more to herself than to him. “I was going to be a secretary for a law firm.”

President Snow quirks an eyebrow yet he does not look surprised in the slightest, “I know,” he plainly states, “I was the one who referred you.” Soarynn's jaw slightly drops, she hadn't expected him to have a helping hand in landing her interview but President Snow is full of surprises it seems. He scoffs a laugh at her dumbfounded expression, "Don't look so stunned," he tells her, leaning back in his chair, "you're an excellent worker, even if you didn't list me as a reference."

Soarynn blushes at his comment, she had chosen to forego listing him as a past employer for many obvious reasons, worrying that he might say something to further ruin her reputation. But instead, he helped her.

"Then you knew about it," she murmurs, daring to look him directly in the eye, "you knew my interview would be today, so you showed up right before I left."

The President of Panem almost looks...caught if that's even possible. Guilty would be a better term for it.

He cards a hand through his golden curls and sighs deeply, "I must admit that showing up today was a strategic plan on my part and a desperate one on Eudora's part since she's quite eager to have you back with us. We figured catching you before the interview would be our best route."

Soarynn didn't realize she was so special.

"Well, I...I would not be opposed to working for your family again," she says, straightening up in her seat, "but I would like to request a few things should I agree to your terms."

President Snow gives her a teasing look as if he hadn't expected this, but Soarynn would be a fool to blindly agree to come back without a safety net in place, "Go on," he encourages, "tell me your terms and conditions."

Soarynn clears her throat, feeling as if she's conducting a business meeting with him. Her father used to do this with her all the time when she wanted something, have her draft up a business proposal, or well, a semblance of one. That's how she got Petunia, a compelling argument can go a long way.

But this isn't her father.

"I would like actions to be taken to prevent another incident from occurring," she states, watching his eyes flash with anger but not at her, she knows who he's really mad at. "Not just in your home," she elaborates, "but anywhere we go, anywhere something bad could happen."

He laces his fingers together, "Anything else?"

"Yes, the children need something to look after, some responsibility like a pet." His nostrils flare at her suggestion, you'd think she suggested setting fire to the Mansion, "A pet is a huge undertaking," he tells her, using the same voice he uses with his girls, "not to mention messy and loud. An animal in my house is quite unlikely."

Soarynn frowns and rubs soothing circles on Caspian's back when he slightly stirs, "A horse then," she decides, "build a stable and allow the girls to take riding lessons. They could learn a great deal by taking care of the horse." He looks off into the distance as if contemplating her proposal and Soarynn hopes he'll accept it, the girls love animals and while a dog might be better suited for them, a horse is a step in the right direction.

"I'll speak to my groundskeepers about building stables," he finally says.

Soarynn cheerfully nods, "Wonderful."

"Is there anything else?"

Soarynn tugs at her bottom lip with her teeth, she can't think of anything else off the top of her head, except..."I want you to listen to me when I try and tell you something," she tells him, "I want you to trust that I would never do anything to put your children in danger and if someone says I would, then I want you to come to me first, not fire me first."

His throat bobs and she knows she's got him. Soarynn shouldn't be talking to her boss this way but this might be her only chance.

"Alright Ms. Nightingale," he says slowly, "I'll agree to your conditions. They seem fair and logical, and I can have my secretary write up a contract listing all of them for the two of us to sign off on."

Soarynn is buzzing with excitement, she gets to go back, to be with the children again.

"Now let me list my terms and conditions."

What?

President Snow wears a smirk letting her know that this won't be a one-sided exchange, "For starters, you'll actually take your one day off every month instead of spending it with my children. I know you've been avoiding those days but it's important for one to have a day of rest."

Soarynn slightly slouches in her chair but doesn't argue with him, perhaps a day off every now and then wouldn't be the worst thing. "Secondly, and I'm speaking for my entire family when I say this, we want you to become a live-in nanny."

Soarynn scrunches her eyebrows in confusion. A live-in nanny?

He waves off her confusion with the wave of his hand, "You'll move into the mansion with us, be with my children at all hours of the day instead of returning to your home every night." He looks around the study that hasn't been touched since the day her father died, dust covering almost anything, "I have a feeling that it must get quite lonely in this large house."

Soarynn purses her lips, it certainly does get lonely but she has Petunia to keep her company and she can't just abandon her. "I'd have to bring my cat," she tells him, watching his jaw clench, "I can't leave her, she's all I have left of him," she whispers the last part. "Besides, the girls already love her and she won't cause any trouble I swear. All she does is sleep."

They're at a bit of a standstill, both wanting something from the other, not willing to give up or back down.

Finally, he breaks.

"Fine. Your cat may come but should she damage any of my property, she's out."

Soarynn can't hide the smile growing across her face, she gets her children back and Petunia gets to come with her. Oh, the girls will be so excited when they hear the news. "You can start today I presume?' He asks while rising from his seat. Soarynn quickly nods and does the same, adjusting her hold on Caspian, "Yes sir."

He grunts, "Very well then. Pack your things and my men will bring them all to the Mansion this afternoon. You and the children can return home once you're finished packing."

Soarynn's smile slightly drops at his orders, "You're not coming with us?" He looks perplexed by her question and sudden disappointment but shakes his head, "I have meetings to attend in the city. I assumed you would accept my offer so I would then be able to leave my children in your trusted care once again. I have another car waiting outside to take you all back home."

Soarynn purses her lips but she doesn't push him any further, this discussion has been a lot for the both of them.

"Home," Caspian repeats, now wide awake. Soarynn softly chuckles and places a kiss on top of his head, "Mhm, we're all going home Cas."

President Snow eyes her and his son, a somewhat fond expression in his eyes although she doubts it's for her and most likely for his son, but she wonders what it would be like for him to look at her that way. He might have looked at Livia like that once upon a time before their world came crashing down.

"Daddy! Daddy look!"

The girls come running into the study, drawing their focus to the topic at hand which will always be the children. Soarynn looks down to find a very annoyed-looking Petunia with a pink ribbon tied around her neck while being held in Ceraphina's arms. She lets out a pleading meow when she sees Soarynn as if saying: 'Save me.'

A small smile graces the President's lips, a genuine one at that, reserved only for his darling children, "She doesn't look too pleased about playing dress-up darling." Ceraphina shakes her head, "She loves it, don't you Petunia?"

Petunia does her best to avoid eye contact with anyone, looking at the ground instead, "Your house is so big Soarynn," Celeste tells her, reaching up to take her hand. Soarynn gladly takes it, knowing now to cherish every moment with these sweet angels, "I won't be staying in it for much longer," she muses, watching both girls grow curious faces. "What do you mean? Are you moving?" Celeste asks, tugging on her hand with an anxious look on her face.

Soarynn immediately crouches down so she's at eye level with both girls who have been dealing with loss for quite some time now, her departure only adding to that trauma, "I am moving," she tells them, watching the crestfallen looks on their faces only grow deeper causing a smile to grow onto hers, "because I'm moving in with you. I'm going to be your live-in nanny now."

The change in their demeanors is instantaneous, the girls go from on the verge of tears to shrieking and jumping up and down.

"Really?! You're really gonna come live with us Soarynn?"

"I am," Soarynn confirms, "Petunia is too."

This might be the best news the girls have ever gotten. They go from hugging Soarynn to hugging their father, thanking him for allowing Soarynn to return. Caspian rests a hand on her cheek and she turns to look into his blue eyes, identical to his father's, "Stay," he says with a determined tone.

Soarynn nods, pressing a kiss to his hand, "I'm staying," she tells him, "I'm not going anywhere."

꧁ ꧂

Everything becomes a blur once President Snow leaves.

After saying goodbye to the children and making them promise to behave, he left for his meetings and Soarynn took the children upstairs so she could start packing.

She packs the necessities first, things such as toiletries and her favorite clothing items while the girls run rampant through her room, wanting to see and touch everything she's ever owned. She doesn't mind though, she's simply happy to be back in their presence again. Caspian sits atop her bed, watching her pack her things into a suitcase while Petunia sits next to him, both their curious blue eyes watching her every move.

"Soarynn, who's this?"

Soarynn glances over at her bookshelf where Ceraphina and Celeste are staring at a photograph of her and her father together, taken the day she graduated from the Academy. "That's my father," she says with a sad smile, "he passed away a while ago."

Ceraphina reaches out to touch the photograph, gently so she doesn't risk knocking it over, "Where's the pictures of you with your mommy?"

A wave of sadness washes over Soarynn, knowing that she'll never have a photograph of her and her mother together is a painful reminder of how her mother passed away. "She died when I was a baby," she explains, "so we never got to take a photo together."

Cera Nightingale was known for her beauty and acts of kindness. She was known to be graceful and full of life, lighting up every room she walked into. So it was no surprise that she fell for Glen Nightingale, a quiet man with a large heart and a kind demeanor. The couple had been overjoyed when they found out Cera was pregnant with their firstborn daughter, who would unbeknownst to them, take Cera's life during the traumatic birth.

And yet her father remained endlessly kind and patient with her, even though Soarynn carried guilt deep down, a feeling that she was responsible for killing her mother. She didn't speak of her mother often, the last time she spoke of her was with President Snow who remarked on their similar looks and traits of kindness, both things she would never bear witness to.

"It's okay," Celeste tells her, crossing the room to place a comforting hand on Soarynn's leg, "as long as we have Daddy, we'll be okay." Soarynn finds it so very adorable and kind of Celeste to be comforting her in this time of sadness, especially at such a young age. President Snow had commented on how she might make his children more kind but that seems impossible, they're already endlessly kind.

"Yes," Soarynn agrees, "we'll all be okay."

꧁ ꧂

It's a wonderful feeling to be back in the President's Mansion. Soarynn thought she might never grace these halls again, let alone with Petunia who took one look at the grand foyer before turning her head and making her way up the stairs. It might take some more exploring to impress her.

"Here's your room dear," Eudora calls, "right down this hall."

Soarynn finds herself surprised when she realizes that her room is in the same hall as the rest of the Snow family's rooms, right in between the girl's bedrooms and Caspian's room. Probably for the convenience of things but she's still shocked to be in such close proximity to the Presidential family, especially President Snow himself who's now only a few doors down.

"Coriolanus wanted you to have this room," Eudora tells her once they all reach the doors, "he said you might enjoy the view." Eudora pushes the doors open after saying that and Soarynn can't stop the gasp from leaving her lips.

It's gorgeous.

It's also huge. There's a large canopy bed pressed against the back wall which has large windows on each side, letting in so much natural light. To the right is a large sitting area with sofas, armchairs, and a fireplace. There are also bookshelves and a large coffee table in the middle of the seating arrangements.

To the left is a large-looking vanity with a dresser and a full-length mirror in the corner. "Oh my goodness," she whispers as she walks into the room, the girls running ahead of her. "Come and see the closet!" Ceraphina says, running into what must be the closet and bathroom. Soarynn follows her as if in a trance, taking a moment to look up at the high, intricately carved ceilings.

The bathroom is just as massive with a tub, shower, and huge counter space with a large mirror as well. There are two sinks and lots of storage space under the counters as well. Soarynn also notes a built-in vanity area as well should she choose to get ready in the bathroom instead.

"You can put your dresses in here," Celeste tells her, pointing towards the closet. Celeste had taken a liking to all of Soarynn's dresses, claiming they were fit for a princess. Soarynn was honored to be considered a princess even though she felt she was far from being one.

“This is amazing,” she whispers to herself when she finally walks into the large walk-in closet. It’s as big as the bathroom with a large table in the middle with a vase of roses sitting on top of it.

“There’s a card!” Ceraphina says, standing on her tiptoes to reach the card leaning against the base of roses. Eudora ends up reaching it for her, a curious look on the older woman’s face which means she had nothing to do with this mystery letter.

Ceraphina proudly brings it over to Soarynn who reluctantly takes it, turning it over to see if anything’s been written on it.

On the front, it simply reads:

To Ms. Nightingale

She turns it and finds that the back has been sealed with a stamp, a rose in the center of the wax. “Rose,” Caspian says, touching the wax for a moment. Soarynn nods before setting the card down on one of the shelves, “I can read it later. Why don’t you girls help me unpack?”

She’s met with excited gasps from the girls and a relieved sigh from Eudora who had been so very happy to see Soarynn walking back into the Mansion. “We’ve been quite miserable without you dear,” she had said as they walked up the grand staircase, “you’ve left a mark on this family it seems.”

The girls run back out into the bedroom to start unpacking the small bag Soarynn brought with her. The rest of her things are packed in trunks, waiting to be picked up by President Snow’s men, whoever they are. Soarynn has seen so many men over the past few months, ranging from Peacekeepers to diplomats. They have one thing in common: President Snow signs their paychecks.

“I have some things to put together, you know where to find me,” Eudora tells her and Soarynn nods, “Of course. Thank you, Eudora.”

Soarynn lingers in the closet for a moment once Eudora leaves, making it just her and Caspian in this large room with so much space she doesn’t know if she’ll be able to fill it.

What if this all goes away? What if he fires me again? What if I lose the children again?

A million terrible thoughts race through her head, thoughts about being forced out of this house again but this time would be much more painful. To have to pack her things and then leave would be devastating.

But it won’t come to that. Not if she has anything to do with it.

“Rose,” Caspian says again, pointing at the letter.

Soarynn sighs and picks it up again, feeling the paper between her fingertips, “Let’s open it now hmm?”

Soarynn walks into the bathroom and carefully sets Caspian down on the countertop before tearing open the wax seal. Her fingers slightly tremble as she pulls out the thick card, only a few words written on it from what she can see.

“Soarynn! Come look at Petunia!”

Her eyes are glued to the card when she answers, “Coming darling!”

Soarynn sets the card down on the counter, letting out a sigh before collecting herself and picking Caspian back up. She has things to do, a job to do in fact and she plans on doing it better than the first time.

But the letter stays in the back of her mind the entire day.

Those words linger on the tip of her tongue and lead her to think about the man sleeping a few doors down from her.

I do hope you enjoy the view of the gardens, and I do hope you find your new room is up to your standards. Should you need anything, don’t hesitate to let me know. I hope we can share another dance in the near future. Yours truly, Coriolanus Snow

꧁ ꧂

꧁ One Week Later ꧂

“I don’t want to wear black.”

Soarynn suppresses a sigh, she knows it’s no use in fighting any of the children today. Not when it holds such a heavy burden on their hearts.

“We have to wear black because Daddy said so,” Ceraphina reminds her little sister, fixing her own black dress, “then we can go put flowers on Mommy’s grave.”

Today marks the two-year anniversary of Livia Snow's death.

It's now a national day of remembrance and many establishments are closed for the day, including all the schools in the Capitol. Soarynn had glanced out of the front windows of the Mansion earlier this morning to see a crowd of people gathering at the front gates to lay down flowers and cards for the family.

The girls were fine during breakfast, chattering away like normal but their father was far from normal, acting more curt and closed off than usual, which was saying something for the man. Caspian didn't seem to be affected by today's significance, but Soarynn still felt terrible about it.

If Livia were still alive, she wouldn't be working for the Snow family.

"It's not a princess dress," Celeste whines, stomping her foot.

Before Soarynn can offer a word of encouragement, an authoritative voice fills the bedroom, stern and sharp, "I will not allow any misbehavior today Celeste. You should know better by now."

Celeste shrinks into herself and Soarynn glances over her shoulder at President Snow, looming over all of them with an aggravated look on his face. She swallows and turns her attention back to the youngest Snow daughter, making sure her hair is properly clipped back, "It's just for a little while darling," she whispers, hoping to salvage the rest of the day, "and you look tremendously grown up in your dress."

Celeste's bottom lip quivers and tears are quick to follow, "I...I don't wanna be grown up, I want Mommy back!" Soarynn's heart clenches at the sight of Celeste in tears, clearly hurting on this dreadful day. "I'm sorry," she whispers, crouching down to comfort Celeste, "I'm sorry she's not here anymore darling. But she's watching over you, and I know she'd be so proud of you." Celeste sniffles and allows Soarynn to pull her in for a hug, a few hiccups escaping her throat, "I don't want Daddy to be mad at me," she whispers, more tears flowing down her face.

Soarynn shakes her head and wipes her tears, "He's not mad at you darling, he could never be mad at you." She looks over her shoulder again at the man who she still knows so little about, but she knows one thing for certain, he loves his children. And he's hurting just as much as they are today.

She can see the sadness in his eyes, watching his youngest daughter break down over the loss of her mother, someone she barely got the chance to know. Ceraphina had been three when Livia passed away, Celeste was two and Caspian was still a baby.

But who could forget a mother's love?

"Come here Celeste," he says quietly, holding out a hand.

Celeste looks up at him with a bit of hesitation and Soarynn gives her a gentle squeeze, "Go on darling," she encourages, standing back up and moving to the side. She watches Celeste slowly walk over to her father, her head lowered, eyes trained on the floor. President Snow sighs and gets down on one knee to be more at eye-level with her.

He takes her small hands in his large ones and while Soarynn can't distinctly make out what he says to her, she knows it's comforting from the way Celeste melts into his hold, letting him wrap his arms around her while they both grieve.

Soarynn has never seen President Snow cry but today could be the day where a tear graces his stoic face.

She looks down at Ceraphina who's watching the interaction with watery eyes as well, "Are you alright Ceraphina?" She asks, wanting to make sure all the children are equally attended to today. Ceraphina nods and wipes any trace of tears away with the back of her hand, "Daddy says it'll get easier," she tells Soarynn, not taking her eyes off of her father and sister, "he says one day we won't be sad when we think about Mommy."

She looks up and gives Soarynn a small smile, "I don't think I can be happy today though."

Soarynn nods, resting a loving hand on top of her blonde hair, "You can be sad for as long as you want darling. No one expects you to get over it in a day or even in a year."

Ceraphina hums, "I know. I'm not like Daddy."

꧁ ꧂

Soarynn hadn't expected the cemetery to be closed today.

But now that she's seen how many people have gathered outside of the fence, she's not surprised. It's the biggest crowd she's ever seen as their car pulls up to the cemetery entrance, two Peacekeepers open the gates so that their car can drive through.

Everyone is in black.

A few people wave, all their faces somber. She spots some older women sporting mourning veils while little children clutch onto their parents and watch the car drive by.

She holds Caspian a little tighter in her lap, making sure his coat is properly buttoned. It's a cold November day, cloudy and dreary, almost fitting for the occasion.

She watches Ceraphina and Celeste lean against their father, sitting on either side of them while President Snow keeps his eyes closed and his head tilted back. He must be exhausted.

The car slowly comes to a stop and Eudora is the first one out, sporting her own mourning attire, a long black coat, a black wig, and eyelashes to match. Soarynn thinks about how Livia's funeral was the hardest thing for Eudora to plan. And who could plan for something like that?

Soarynn out of all people knows how hard it is to lose a parent. No one should have to plan for something like that.

"Let's go children," Eudora calls, waving them to follow her.

Ceraphina looks up at her father before slowly sliding across the seat and out of the car, taking Eudora's hand the second her feet touch the ground. President Snow finally opens his eyes and leans down to whisper something in Celeste's ear. Her eyes widen and she nods, taking his hand once again before they both get out of the car.

"It's our turn Caspian," Soarynn says softly, making sure she's got a good hold on the youngest Snow child while she steps out of the car. She's offered a hand and manages to keep a neutral expression as she takes President Snow's hand, gracefully standing back up to her full height, "Thank you," she says.

He only nods in response before turning on his heel to lead the way.

Soarynn has never visited Livia Snow's grave so she can only follow him and watch the children. Celeste and her father stay in the front with Eudora and Celeste in the center. Soarynn and Caspian bring up the rear and she takes a quick look around and notes several Peacekeepers either following them or patrolling the perimeter of the cemetery.

Soarynn has gotten more used to their presence but seeing them with their large guns makes her anxious.

Soarynn walks a bit faster to catch up to Eudora and Ceraphina and she lowers her voice before asking her a question, "Are we...are we allowed to be with the family for this?"

Eudora keeps her gaze trained on what's ahead of her but she shakes her head, "You and I will stay back while they visit her grave."

Soarynn hums, focusing her gaze on the back of President Snow's head, his blonde curls swept back and away from his face looking so soft. She wonders if Livia ever ran her fingers through them, if she ever looked up at him so adoringly.

From what Eudora's told her, probably not.

They walk deep into the cemetery, farther than Soarynn anticipated but when she sees the sheer size of Livia's tombstone, she can see why it's so far back.

Many people in the Capitol are rich, wealthy, and elite. But you can't take your money with you when you die. Unless you're Livia Snow. Her grave isn't even a grave, it's a mausoleum with roses growing outside of it. Soarynn has seen many decrepit graves but this is not one of them. The marble stone shines as if it's brand new. They must have someone come and clean it from time to time. Soarynn knows the Capitol citizens often come to pay their respects and leave flowers as well.

The doors leading to the inside are closed and if Sosrynn remembers correctly, they're always closed to the public. Only the family is allowed inside.

President Snow and Celeste come to a halt in front of the stone structure and both of them look back at their remaining family members. Ceraphina lets go of Eudora's hand and slowly makes her way over to her father and sister, reaching up to grab her father's other hand. Soarynn takes in a shaky breath before slowly approaching Livia's gravesite, Caspian feeling so heavy in her arms all of a sudden as if there's a weight on her chest.

Caspian reaches out for his father the second he's within reach, "Momma," he says, pointing at the doors. President Snow's face is grim but he nods, "I can take him." Normally, Soarynn would hesitate, not wanting to burden her employer but today is not the day to question his orders so she silently hands the small boy off to his father who holds him as if he weighs nothing.

"Let's go visit your mother," he says to the children, reaching into his pocket and pulling out a key.

Soarynn takes this as her sign to leave and gives the girls one last encouraging nod before she walks back to where Eudora is standing. They both watch the Snow family make their way inside the mausoleum, all of them scuffling behind one another. "It never gets easier," Eudora says with a sigh, "last year was horrible if you can imagine."

Soarynn certainly can imagine how terrible it must have been, the first year is always the hardest. "He seems tired," Soarynn notes, "his patience is thinner today than it usually is."

Eudora lets out a dry laugh, "If he had his way, we wouldn't even come and visit her. He does this for the children, it helps them understand and move on. But I know he wants nothing more than to move past this."

Soarynn can't imagine wanting to move past the death of her husband if she should ever marry. She'd spend every day mourning his loss and yet President Snow looks like he'd rather be at a meeting.

"I suppose we all grieve differently," Soarynn decides.

Soarynn looks over at the fence where a crowd has gathered, watching them and the Snow family with curious eyes and a few with cameras. "Is there always a crowd?" Eudora perks up and nods, "Oh yes. Last year it was even bigger, that's why we closed down the cemetery today, it was far too chaotic the first time."

It must be terribly strange to have people watching your every move while you mourn the loss of a family member. The Snows are already under a microscope, and Livia's death has only increased people's opinions about them.

"Is it alright if I walk around for a bit?" Soarynn asks, shoving her hands into the pockets of her coat, "I feel a bit out of place just standing here." Eudora gives her shoulder a gentle pat, meant to be comforting, "Of course, dear."

Soarynn offers her a tight-lipped smile before she begins her journey to the far side of the cemetery where many elite members of society have been buried. While none of their graves compare to Livia's, they're still monumental, not to mention incredibly expensive. It's one thing to afford a nice house or apartment while you're living, but to afford a tombstone when you're dead is another thing entirely.

Soarynn wouldn't care if she was buried in a wooden box, but that's just the way things are.

She passes several plots reserved for entire families before she stops in front of the familiar plot, only space for one more grave.

Hers.

She walks up to the graves of both her parents, dusting off any dirt or leaves from the tops. Her fingertips drag over the engraved words on their headstones.

Cera Nightingale - Beloved Wife & Mother "Till we meet again in the meadow."

Glen Nightingale - Beloved Husband & Father "My grief has been the souvenir of our love."

What will hers read?

Beloved Daughter & Cat Owner?

She can't imagine what will happen when Petunia gets older, she's all she has left of her father, and her family for that matter.

"I miss you," she whispers, resting a hand against her father's headstone, "I miss you every time I close my eyes."

Soarynn hadn't known loss until she lost her father. It's terrifying to love something that death can so easily touch.

Soarynn stays there for what feels like an eternity until she hears a small voice calling out her name, "Soarynn!"

Soarynn quickly wipes any trace of tears or emotion off of her face before turning around to face Ceraphina who's run up to her, her cheeks red from the cold. She doesn't look like she's been crying her eyes out which is a good thing she hopes. "Hello darling," she greets her, brushing a stray hair from her face, "how're you feeling?"

Ceraphina shrugs, looking around at the surrounding graves, "I'm okay. We got to pick the roses and put them on Mommy's grave and then I got to talk to her and tell her I turned five and then Celeste talked to her and said she turned four. Then Caspian said something about Lenny except I can't remember the rest. Then Daddy whispered some words and now here we are."

Soarynn looks up to find that the entire Snow family has made their way over to her, Eudora included. Ceraphina peers around Soarynn's legs and her eyes zero in on her parent's tombstones, "Did you know these people?"

Soarynn hums, "These are my parents graves."

She watches Ceraphina slowly approach the tombstones, her small hand resting on her mother's stone, "Do you come to visit them a lot?" Soarynn shakes her head, more guilt eating away at her heart, "No," she answers, "I should visit more often but I don't."

She watches out of the corner of her eyes as Celeste lets go of her father's hand and reluctantly walks over to her big sister, her eyes scanning the engraved words. "Is this about the meadow song?"

Soarynn tilts her head at the question, "The meadow song?"

"Uh-huh. The meadow song with the bed of grass. It says: 'Till we meet again in the meadow.' Is that what it's talking about?"

Soarynn honestly hadn't thought of that before. She'd visited her mother's grave countless times when her father was still alive but she never really considered the meaning behind the words that were the last bits of Cera Nightingale. Leave it to a four-year-old to put the pieces together before she did.

"That's a nice way to think of it," she finally says.

The girls whisper a few things to each other and then turn back around, "Can we leave them flowers?"

A smile creeps onto Soarynn's face at their sweet request. She brought flowers in the beginning after her father died, but she stopped after a while. Stopped trying, stopped trying to heal that hole in her heart. But these girls might just be able to fix it.

"We sure can."

The girls smile and take each other's hands to go and pick some flowers growing near the fence. Soarynn watches them and feels his presence next to her, both of them grieving different losses today, "Do you think they're proud of you?"

Soarynn swallows at his question, it's a loaded one but she never had to worry about making her parents proud. That was never the most important thing to her family. "I think they're cheering me on," she answers, finally looking up at him. Even dressed in all black, President Snow is so very handsome. His gaze never wavers away from his girls but she can see how emotionally exhausting this has all been for him.

"I don't think Livia is cheering me on," he says, shaking his head, "I think she's watching me and thinking about what a failure I am to our children."

Soarynn frowns and rests a hand on his arm before she can stop herself and he finally tears his gaze away from the girls to look down at her, piercing blue meeting stormy gray, "You're not a failure," she says softly, "you're a father, and you're trying your best. Just like my father did. He certainly didn't have it all figured out on the first day."

President Snow looks over at her father's tombstone and he furrows his brows, "Your father was a good man. He had it much harder than me, raising an infant while also mourning the death of his wife and yet he never once thought about hiring a nanny. He said you deserved better, that you deserved his attention and he was right," his eyes hold a hint of what might be adoration but Soarynn isn't sure, "you do deserve better Soarynn."

She could blame it on the wind or the cold but Soarynn feels tears burning in her eyes, "You're a good father," she insists, "I've seen it with my own eyes, you love your children and you're trying to do the best by them, even if it means hiring a nanny. Admitting your weaknesses is the first step to getting stronger. You can't be there for them all the time so you found someone who can. That doesn't make you a monster, it makes you human."

She swears she can see a tear roll down his cheek but her vision is pretty blurry from her own tears.

"Sometimes I worry the grief might never leave," he admits, blinking away any possible tears, "not that we had much love for each other to begin with."

Soarynn can hear the girls running back to them, giggling while holding flowers no doubt to decorate her parent's graves. They both look over and watch the girls run to Eudora first, showing her and then Caspian, who's hugged to her hip the flowers. Caspian smiles and reaches down to touch the petals. So young and yet so much life ahead of him, ahead of all of them really.

"The grief might end someday," Soarynn says, "but the love never will."

| Part 5. |

| tumblr oneshot/drabble |

{ Part 6. }

[slaymitchabernathy]

The Nanny

꧁ One Week Later ꧂

Soarynn brings her hands up to her mouth, blowing air onto them in hopes of warming them up. It snowed last night and the children have been itching to explore the fresh blanket of fallen snow since the second they woke up.

The girls giggle while they run around the snow-covered grounds, leaving behind tiny footprints. Soarynn smiles at the sight, doing her best to forget about how terrified she had been a week prior. To forget about the attack.

When they arrived at the Capitol the morning after, they moved silently. No one had been made aware of the conflict that took place in Four and Coriolanus planned on keeping it that way. They exited through the front of the train, heading down a dark maintainence tunnel where a car was waiting for them.

Very few people were told about the attack, such as Quintus Heavensbee and the family doctor who conducted several checks on Soarynn and the children once they were safely inside the President's Mansion. He told her that her nose wasn't broken, only swollen, and that the bruising around her eye would disappear. He also provided some healing salve to speed up the process.

He had offered to test for the possibility of any sexually transmitted diseases but she assured him that nothing had transpired while she was held captive. Part of her wondered if Coriolanus didn't entirely trust her, would he go to such lengths to confirm or deny her claim?

Coriolanus had locked himself away in his study the first day they got back from the trip, goodness knows how much work he would have to do. But he's been acting more...flippant. Asking her how she's doing more often, checking in on her more often, encouraging her to ask the staff for anything she might possibly need. As if she could ever need anything while living with him and his family.

He seems more caring but Soarynn wonders if it's because of the attack or what transpired after. The kiss.

Oh, that kiss has been the bane of her existence. Some of her wishes that she let it go further, that she spent the night in his embrace. But the other half of her is glad she didn't give in to her desires. Even though she really wanted to.

He had come up to her the following day with specific instructions that she could not under any circumstances leave the property with or without the children until he said so. Soarynn had been a bit put off by that order but he explained that no one could see her in this injured state, and he wasn't too keen on letting his children out of his sight at the moment. So, they stayed inside, they could go out onto the grounds so long as they didn't go beyond the fence. It's not like they could with the heightened Peacekeeper presence surrounding the Mansion.

The Snows were on high alert.

Soarynn had asked Eudora if they'd still be throwing the end-of-the-year party and Eudora confirmed that the party was still on as far as she knew. Soarynn hoped it would stay that way, the girls were so excited about it.

"Look Soarynn! I made a snow angel and I'm a Snow!"

Soarynn walks over to Ceraphina who's sitting in the snow, not a care in the world as to how cold it is outside right now. It had taken quite a bit of convincing to get the girls to wear coats, hats, and gloves before they braved the cold but Soarynn insisted that they wear the gloves. Caspian had already thrown his off, he hated the things and Soarynn had given up on making him wear them about an hour ago.

"What a beautiful angel," Soarynn says, giving Ceraphina a nod of approval. Celeste runs between the two of them, her pink scarf flying behind her like a cape. Celeste had insisted on wearing her favorite pink scarf as well, claiming that it was the "perfect accessory."

"There's Daddy," she points, looking up at the large windows overlooking the grounds.

Soarynn looks up as well, her heart beats a little faster when she spots Coriolanus looking down on them. "Wave to your father Cas," Soarynn says, lifting one of Caspian's little arms. Caspian mumbles something about Lenny who was not allowed to come to play in the snow for fear of him getting dirty and buries his head in her neck. Soarynn chuckles, pressing a kiss to his head, "You'll see Lenny soon when you take your nap."

She looks back up at Coriolanus one more time, offering him a wave this time, and to her surprise, he returns it. Another man joins him after a moment, Quintus Heavensbee from the looks of it and he also waves which is a big hit with the girls who gasp and also start waving. "Daddy can see us!" Celeste says, running up to Soarynn and clinging to her leg.

Soarynn nods, tearing her gaze away from the most conflicting man she's ever met to focus on his darling daughter, "He certainly can," she agrees, "and you look so stylish in your winter coat."

Both girls wore light pink coats today to match their hats while Soarynn dressed Caspian in a dark red coat, very similar to one that his father often wears when addressing the nation outside. Soarynn went with a cream-colored coat today, a brave choice while watching three children but she felt it made her look sophisticated. She'd taken off her gloves to hold Caspian better but she was beginning to regret her decision.

If only Caspian enjoyed the snow more. He liked it for about...two minutes. Then he was tugging at her pant leg, asking to be held which she happily obliged to. "Can we go inside can we have hot chocolate?" Ceraphina's question causes Soarynn's stomach to grumble in agreement, "Yes," she answers, "hot chocolate sounds delightful." It really does and then she could put Caspian down for a nap right after.

She had worried that the attack might've had severe psychological effects on the children but they glazed right over it. After losing their mother, perhaps nothing phased them anymore.

It certainly affected her but she was doing a good job at pretending like it didn't.

And she'd keep acting that way until she forgot how it felt to be thrown around, treated like she was nothing. She knew she wasn't nothing, she was just the nanny.

꧁ ꧂

"Does it hurt when I press down?"

Soarynn looks up at the ceiling while the doctor applies a slight pressure to her nose, it doesn't hurt anymore which is a relief. She had worried that her injury might have led to something more severe like a ruptured sinus or a disfigured nose.

"No, it doesn't," she answers.

The doctor hums, pulling his hand away from her face, "Good, it's almost back to normal. By the end of the week, you'll be good as new." Soarynn forces a polite smile onto her lips, fighting the urge to ask if he can prescribe anything to fix the damage that has been done to her on the inside, not the outside.

"Now, let's check on your eye. You haven't been experiencing any vision problems since I last saw you correct?" Soarynn shakes her head while carding a hand through her hair, "No, my vision hasn't been affected by the bruising."

The doctor pulls a tool out of his bag that shines a bright light on her face, "Keep your eye open," he instructs, "I just want to make sure the cornea is still intact." Soarynn has no idea what any of that means but she does as she's told and holds still, even though she can feel her eye beginning to water from the bright light.

Finally, he pulls away from her face and she lets out a breath of relief, "All is well then?" She asks, watching him pack up his things after scribbling down some notes. She wonders if he gives these reports to Coriolanus. He probably does. Nothing happens under his roof without him knowing about it.

"Yes," he confirms with a smile, "you seem to be right on track to a healthy recovery. Just remember, if your eye begins to bother you, use a hot and cold compress and have President Snow give me a call."

"Thank you doctor."

Soarynn watches the man walk out of her bedroom, leaving the doors slightly ajar and she falls back onto her bed, sighing loudly. She's been so tired lately, she hasn't been sleeping well since they got back home. She wonders if this might be some sort of post-traumatic disorder. Maybe she should've mentioned it to the doctor, or has he already noticed and told Coriolanus?

She certainly hasn't been slacking when it comes to her job as a nanny but she knows herself well enough to know that eventually, this will all catch up to her.

Maybe she can get some sleep now that the doctor's gone. She already put the children to bed. Sleep sounds good. Her eyes slowly drift shut and she focuses on breathing in and out, in, and out, in and… "Soarynn? Coriolanus wants to speak with you dear."

Soarynn rolls over to her stomach and groans into the mattress before pushing herself back up, "I'm coming," she calls back, not wanting Eudora to come in and find her like this, sulking and moping about. She slides off the bed, hoping she doesn't look as miserable as she feels before yanking open the doors, "Did he say what he wanted to talk to me about?"

Eudora shakes her head, waving for Soarynn to follow her, "I imagine it'll have something to do with the attack," she muses, leading them to the back staircase, "he's been working on interrogating all the Rebels who took you and the children hostage. You might need to identify some of the men who escaped."

Soarynn's mind immediately goes to Marvin who managed to slip off the boat and swim away unscathed. His friends couldn't say the same. But did they catch him?

"Soarynn?"

Soarynn blinks several times, pulled from her frequent thoughts of District Four, "I'm sorry, what did you say?" Eudora gives her a concerned look from over her shoulder as they make their way down the hallway, "I asked how everything went with the doctor. Did he say anything?"

Soarynn shakes her head, "No, nothing major to report. My nose and eye should be back to normal by the end of the week."

Eudora lets out a sigh of relief, "Well that's good to hear. It'd be a shame if those brutes managed to mark up your pretty face permanently." Soarynn merely hums in reply, both women coming to a stop in front of the ominous doors that lead to Coriolanus Snow's study.

"I'll be in my room should you need anything," Eudora tells her.

Soarynn nods and watches Eudora walk back down the hallway, she's been staying in her honorary bedroom since the attack, swarmed with paperwork and reports to sort through for Coriolanus.

Soarynn gently knocks on the doors, her gut feels like it's been twisted into a knot. "Come in," he calls from the other side.

Soarynn quietly opens the doors, closing them behind her. It's dark in his study, only the fireplace and a few lamps providing him with light as he works.

She slowly approaches his desk, unsure of how to conduct herself with her boss behind closed doors after the last time they were alone together. Coriolanus remains focused on his work, not even sparing her a glance when she sits down. Soarynn absentmindedly drums her fingers against the armrests of the chair, looking up at the ceiling and the carvings that look down on her.

"Your nose looks better."

Soarynn looks back down and across the desk at Coriolanus who sits back in his chair, pen in hand but his attention is now on her, "And your eye," he adds. Soarynn is now hyperaware of her appearance, she had taken off her makeup per the doctor's request and she had planned on trying to sleep right after he left which means she's barefaced once again.

"The doctor said I should be healed up by the end of the week."

"I know," he answers, his blue eyes scanning her face, "he also said that you haven't been getting enough sleep."

Soarynn tenses in her seat, "I never said I wasn't getting enough sleep."

His lips curl up into a smirk and he tilts his head, looking very handsome while doing so, "You don't need to tell him anything. He's a practiced man and he's been staring into your eye for the past few days, he can tell when someone hasn't been getting enough rest. Not to mention it's clear as day to the rest of us."

Soarynn frowns, she's been doing a good job at acting like everything is fine but maybe she hasn't been doing as good as she thought. "I'm fine," she insists, mimicking his relaxed body language, "Eudora said you might ask me about identifying our kidnappers."

Her attempt to switch topics has its intended effect and he drops his smirk and leans forward, adopting the stern persona she's more than used to dealing with by now. "Yes," he shuffles through some papers on his desk, "we apprehended everyone on the beach that wasn't shot on sight but we need you to confirm a few of these Rebels before we proceed."

He slides a file toward her and Soarynn tentatively reaches for it, opening it up to find Marvin's face staring up at her, "This is Marvin," she murmurs, flipping to the next page, finding the face of the man who was shot while trying to jump off looking up at her as well. "And this man was trying to escape," she brings her fingers up to her mouth, remembering how the blood tasted, "I...I saw him get shot. But he's dead now."

She flips through the remainder of the pages but finds no more familiar faces, "Those are the only two I came in contact with," she tells him, placing the file back on the desk, "what will happen to them?"

Coriolanus folds his hands, "I thought about turning them into Avoxes," Soarynn swallows at the casual threat, "but that was too merciful. They'll be executed along with the rest of the Rebels later this week and we'll televise the aftermath to deter any other Districts from trying anything before the year is up."

She sits back in her chair, he says it so casually as if talking about what they'll have for breakfast tomorrow.

"Do you think I should do something else to punish these men?"

Her eyes widen at his question, Soarynn could never conjure up such a punishment, her mind wouldn't allow it. "They said they wanted you to stop the Hunger Games," she recalls, watching his face carefully, "but I guess you won't be doing that."

Coriolanus shakes his head, "I won't be doing that," he confirms, "it's my job to keep the Hunger Games alive."

What a horrible job to have.

"Okay," she says softly, "I trust you to make the right decision."

They both stare at each other for a moment, blue meeting blue-gray. It's like two different oceans crashing against each other. Sometimes, she feels so close to him, other times, she wonders if they're living on the same planet. They've gotten closer but they're still so far away.

Like December and January, so close yet so far.

"How's Petunia doing?"

Soarynn didn't expect him to ask her that, but it gets her mind off of things and she appreciates that, "She's happy to be back in my presence," she says, remembering how excited Petunia had been when Sejanus dropped her off. The girls had been more excited than Soarynn, hugging and kissing Petunia.

Coriolanus hums, "That's good. The stables are done being built."

Soarynn perks up at the good news, "Oh the children will be so excited."

Soarynn had forgotten all about their little agreement to get the children a horse or two to ride and take care of but it’s sure to be a hit. She wonders if each of the children should have their own horse or if just one would be better suited for them at their age. It would certainly teach them to share better.

While Caspian doesn't mind sharing, his sisters certainly do which is rather ironic since they have everything they could possibly need.

Coriolanus studies her for a moment, his eyes lingering on her lips for far too long, "I thought we might discuss what happened on the train," he finally says. Soarynn's breath hitches in her throat, is this when he fires her again? She definitely put her own feelings before the children's. Maybe that kiss was a test and she miserably failed.

"Oh," is all she has to say, her cheeks burning with shame. Coriolanis sighs, running his fingers through his trussed curls. They always look so pristine at breakfast, perfectly styled for another day of work but by the end of the day, they look softer, he looks softer.

"I think we can both agree that emotions were running high," he says and Soarynn nods, there were a lot of emotions on that train, "and we've been dancing around the most pressing topic since we got back," he continues. Soarynn sits up straighter, preparing herself to be fired once again except this time, he has proof. He was there.

His lips on her lips.

"Are you going to fire me?"

Coriolanus looks taken aback at her question, his eyebrows furrowing, "Fire you?"

Soarynn nods, her head hanging in shame, "I crossed a line," she tells him, "the children are the most important thing to me and I let my emotions rule over my decisions."

Coriolanus looks absolutely dumbfounded, so completely and utterly lost. "Soarynn, I'm not going to fire you." She lifts her head, staring into his gorgeous eyes, he truly is a handsome man. "You're not?"

Coriolanus shakes his head and a small smile grows on his lips, "I think the girls might actually kill me if you left again. And I simply wanted to talk about the change in our dynamic." Now Soarynn is the one who looks confused.

"Our dynamic?" She repeats, puzzled by his words. Their dynamic is crystal clear to her. She's the nanny, he's the President of Panem. Simple enough.

"I haven't kissed another woman since Livia," he admits, scratching the back of his neck, "I haven't even looked at another woman since Livia, and yet the second you stepped foot into this house, I haven't been able to entirely focus on my job."

Looks like we're in the same boat, she thinks but she just nods at him to keep going. Coriolanus sighs, "These things can be tricky, I have an insurmountable amount of pressure on me to always be the perfect leader, the perfect boss, the perfect father, but being the perfect partner is something I've always failed at."

"No one is perfect," she tells him softly, "it's impossible to be perfect. Someone will always feel as though you're not doing enough."

That seems to hit him hard as he leans back in his seat, deep in thought. "I enjoyed it," he finally says, looking across at her, "I enjoyed kissing you, holding you. I enjoy being in your presence even though I can tell that you're always on edge around me." He smirks and Soarynn immediately feels flustered and called out.

"Well, well you're the President," she argues, "and my boss. It's natural for me to have a certain degree of nerves. A healthy fear if you will." His smirk drops and Soarynn's heart along with it. Did she say something wrong?

"I've always said that it's better to be feared than loved," he tells her, "when people love you and you love them, they aren't afraid to push back. If people fear you, then they won't risk any pushback. It's the things we love most that destroy us."

Soarynn knows all about that. She loved her father with all her heart and his death absolutely destroyed her. Coriolanus loves his children with all his heart and people took them away from him, used them as leverage against him. But they used her too, which leads her to wonder how he felt about that.

"I don't want you to fear me Soarynn."

Maybe this attack left scars on him too, only on the inside but scars nonetheless. And maybe she'll be allowed to see them someday.

"You want me to love you?"

A pained look crosses his face, a look she's all too familiar with, the look of remembering what once was, what he used to have with another woman that wasn't her. Livia has left scars all over his body.

"I don't think I'm capable of loving anyone outside of my children," he admits, "but, I do think I'm capable of opening up again."

Soarynn can feel her heart beating so fast. It feels so hot in this room all of a sudden. So suffocating.

"Okay," is all she says.

Coriolanus holds out his hand, beckoning her to come over to him, "Come here," he says, calmly and quietly. Soarynn is shaking as she pushes herself from her chair. This is so different from the train. Their dynamic is different. She's dressed differently.

Still, she walks around the desk.

She's never been on this side of his desk but she bets he feels so powerful sitting behind it. He looks powerful now, with his shirt slightly unbuttoned and his legs spread as he turns to face her. She places her hand in his and he wraps his fingers around it, gently pulling her towards him until she's standing in between his legs.

Coriolanus takes his other hand and rests it on her bare thigh, causing Soarynn to draw in a shaky breath. She's never done any of this. Will he teach her or will he expected her to know how things are done in the bedroom? They're not even in a bedroom right now. They're in his study like she's some sweet little secret he doesn't want to get out.

His hand slides up further and further under her nightgown and stops when he reaches her inner thigh, inches away from her covered core. He looks up at her with those blue eyes, clouded with lust and desire. He tugs her forward and she gasps, within one swift motion, she's seated in his lap, essentially straddling him.

His lips are crashing against hers within seconds.

Coriolanus slides both hands under her nightgown, grabbing her waist and he groans. Soarynn whimpers when his teeth gently tug at her bottom lip, this is all so new to her, so new and overwhelming. He is overwhelming. All she can smell is roses.

She doesn't know what to do with her hands so she rests them on his broad shoulders, he feels so strong.

One of his hands slides down her back, resting on her ass and squeezing it. Soarynn moans into the kiss, and goosebumps cover her skin. He pulls away from the kiss only to start kissing up and down her jaw, pressing kisses on her neck as well. Soarynn sighs, staring up at the ceiling again, wondering if this is how all their encounters will go from now on. Secret and rushed.

His other hand leaves her waist, sliding out from under her nightgown to grab her throat. He applies a slight pressure to the sides of her neck and Soarynn gasps, her head feels hazy, her breaths are shortened and she's panicking.

She's remembering.

Remembering what those men said about her. How good she'd feel. How she's the President's whore.

Whore. Slut. The President's little plaything.

Her vision is growing spotty and his lips are getting more aggressive. Soarynn can feel his fingers sliding under the waistband of her panties. She tries to buck his hand off but he must think that she's into this, into him.

"Good girl," he praises, sucking on the tender skin under her ear.

Soarynn squeezes her eyes shut and uses all the strength in her body to shove him back. "Stop," she gasps, opening her eyes again, "stop, please stop." His hands disappear from her body instantly but she still feels like she's being choked, being touched. Touched by them, by those men who talked about fucking her while she was tied up.

Soarynn gasps for air, tears burn in her eyes.

"Soarynn," he starts, his eyes filled with concern and confusion but she's already shaking her head, already trying to get off of his lap.

Everything is so fuzzy and she ends up falling backward onto the floor. Pain shoots through her body but the adrenaline takes over and she pushes herself onto her feet, "I'm sorry," she whispers, shame flooding her voice, "I...I can't."

She rests a hand on the edge of his desk as she walks around it, ignoring his calls for her. She stumbles towards the doors, opening them and welcoming the fresh air.

"Soarynn," he calls again.

She ignores him.

She ignores everything while walking back down the hallway, a million terrible thoughts racing through her mind. She manages to make it to the back staircase and she leans against the banister for a second, catching her breath.

She can still feel his hands on her body and she hates it.

Soarynn grabs onto the railing and pulls herself onto the stairs, making her way up them at a pathetic rate. When she reaches the top, she's out of breath. She wonders what he's thinking, if he's following her, or if he's really going to fire her now that she's truly lost it.

Tears begin to stream down Soarynn's face but she keeps walking, desperate to go to her room and sleep all of this away. She walks past Ceraphina's room and chokes back a sob, she can't believe she made such a foolish risk like that when the children are her main priority.

How could she be so stupid?

When she finally gets to her own room, she slams the doors closed behind her, sinking down onto the floor. Soarynn pulls her knees up to her chest and allows herself to properly cry. Would this all be different if her father hadn't died? If Livia hadn't died? Are they both watching her run around with the President of Panem like she's living in some delusional fairy tale?

Her entire frame trembles as she cries, her gasps echo throughout her room. She's so tired, so exhausted both mentally and physically. When does it all end? The anxiety, the unknown, the battle between her heart and her head?

A soft purring momentarily distracts her from the world falling apart and she looks up from her spot on the floor to find Petunia staring up at her, those eyes identical to her own filled with unending devotion in a world full of conditions. "Oh Petunia," she whispers, "I ruined everything." More tears threaten to spill down her cheeks but Soarynn forces them back.

Coriolanus was right about one thing.

She's not getting enough sleep and she's exhausted. She knows that the lack of sleep isn't doing her or her emotions any favors. "Let's go to bed," she mumbles, reaching out for her loyal feline. Petunia allows her to scoop her up and Soarynn slowly stands to her feet, more stable now that she's had a proper breakdown. She doesn't even get under the covers, she just flops onto the bed and finally, finally gives into sleep.

꧁ ꧂

When Soarynn wakes up she can hear birds chirping accompanied by the sound of a small person breathing beside her.

She cracks one eye open and finds Celeste watching her intently. "Good morning," she whispers causing Soarynn to smile, she probably looks rough right now but Celeste isn't one to comment on one's outward appearance. That's her sister's specialty.

"Good morning darling," she replies, reaching out to rest a loving hand on her cheek. Celeste leans into her touch and her eyes hold worry and fear, "Daddy said you were sick so you couldn't come to breakfast, are you really sick?" Soarynn swallows, she must've slept through her alarm which means Coriolanus thinks she's avoiding him.

Which she is but that's a hard thing to do in his own house.

At least he came up with a good lie to cover up her absence. She feels bad though, missing breakfast means that either Coriolanus or Eudora had to wake the children up. "I'm not feeling my best," she answers truthfully, sitting up slowly, "but I don't think I'm sick."

Celeste lets out a sigh of relief and nods, "Okay good, I don't want you to get sick like Mommy did."

Soarynn feels her heart break into a million pieces.

She can't imagine the fear and anxiety that the children must deal with whenever the adults in their lives get sick or injured. The slightest cough must send them over the edge and here she is, sleeping through breakfast because she can't handle a bit of intimacy.

Get it together, she chides herself while patting the spot on the bed next to her, "Come sit darling." Celeste smiles at the opportunity to get into someone else's bed and attempts to jump onto the bed but she's still too little so Soarynn swoops her up, making her giggle. "Who woke you up?" Soarynn asks, running a hand through Celeste's curls. She's still dressed in her pajamas which means it's still early in the morning.

Celeste cuddles against her, "Eudora did. Then Daddy let me try some of his coffee but but was so yucky Soarynn." She grins at a very true statement, Soarynn has never been too fond of coffee even though it always smells delicious. Her father would always drink it at breakfast. He'd read the paper while they spent their mornings together, Soarynn preparing for school and her father preparing for work.

She misses those moments.

"At least you tried it," Soarynn tells her, "it's important to try new things." Celeste hums, playing with the hem of Soarynn's nightgown, "Can we go to the park today?" Soarynn wishes they could, the children are beginning to grow stir crazy and she can't really blame them. "Once my eye and nose look better then we can go," she tells Celeste who looks up at her face to assess the damage. "I'm sorry we couldn't help you," she says quietly, her eyes dropping back down.

Soarynn frowns, has Celeste been carrying around this guilt the entire time? And Ceraphina for that matter? Heaven knows what Caspian has been thinking about since they got back home.

Soarynn insistently shakes her head, quick to deter any of these terrible thoughts, "You all were a great help to me, darling. You kept me calm and you helped me when I fell. And most importantly, you listened to me. You all trusted me and I...I," Soarynn feels herself getting choked up but for different reasons this time, "I love you all very much. I can't imagine a world without you children in it."

Celeste's own face reflects the same feeling of endearment, her eyes look so much like his, and yet Soarynn knows exactly where her heart lies.

Coriolanus Snow might be a mystery to her but his children never are.

꧁ ꧂

Later that day, Soarynn finds herself at the Capitol Stables.

This is the last place she expected to be but according to Eudora, Coriolanus wants Soarynn to select the perfect horse for the children. She still hasn't seen Coriolanus since last night but she's perfectly fine with that.

"Did you ever go to the races?" Sejanus Plinth's question pulls her from her faraway thoughts about Coriolanus Snow and back into the present where they're strolling through the Stables, looking at all the horses in their stalls.

"I did," she answers, "my father loved watching the races and I loved the horses." Horse racing is a well-practiced sport in the Capitol, known for its wealthy spectators and expensive bets placed on the horses. During the off-season the Stables are open for people to visit the horses and even purchase one of their own should they choose to do so.

Soarynn has been the arena where the races take place but never the Stables, not until now that is. She didn't know what to expect and since Eudora would be watching the children, she had invited Sejanus to accompany her. She felt safer with someone beside her, and Sejanus had taken such great care of Petunia while they were gone.

Sejanus nods, "They're beautiful creatures," he agrees, "how was District Four by the way?" Soarynn pales a bit at his question, but she recovers smoothly, "It was cold," she answers, "but beautiful. The ocean is a force to be reckoned with."

They stop at one of the stalls where a spotted horse sticks its head out to greet them, "Oh, aren't you a pretty thing?" Soarynn asks, reaching out to scratch its head. They both chuckle when the horse leans out further, just like Petunia asking for pets. "Is there a specific color you're after?" Sejanus asks, resting a hand on its neck. Soarynn purses her lips, she wasn't given any specific instructions as to what to look for but she can imagine that Coriolanus would want something that screams 'The Snow Family.'

"Something white," she decides, giving the horse a pat farewell, "Coriolanus would like that."

Sejanus grins, "First name basis huh?" Her cheeks burn pink as she starts walking again, "You're not funny you know," she says, quickening her pace, "and he insisted that I be on a first-name basis with him." She slows her pace when she comes across a beautiful horse, all white, "Hello there," she greets, gripping the stall door. Sejanus comes up next to her, looking the horse up and down, "I'd say he matches your description, and as for Coriolanus, I'm simply surprised that he insisted. He's been so closed off since Livia."

Soarynn hums, watching the horse slowly walk up to them, its tail flicking behind it, "I know," she murmurs, "and I barely even speak to him as it is. We're both far too busy with our jobs." Lies, lies, lies.

Sejanus looks like he doesn't believe her but she chooses to ignore it. She's been choosing to ignore a lot of things lately.

꧁ ꧂

When Soarynn comes back from the Stables, all three of the Snow children rush to greet her. She must admit, it was nice to leave for a while, see the city again. Eudora had instructed her to apply a liberal amount of makeup to cover up any bruising or swelling and since Sejanus hadn't commented on any of it, she must've done a good job.

"You're back!" Ceraphina says, throwing her arms around Soarynn's legs. Soarynn almost tumbles back but Sejanus prevents that from happening, quickly steadying her, "Where are my hugs huh?" He teases, earning him more excited gasps. The children see Soarynn every day, Sejanus is a rare treat when it comes to visitors.

While Celeste and Ceraphina flock around Sejanus asking him all sorts of questions, Caspian slowly but surely toddles over to Soarynn, holding his hands out for balance. Soarynn grins at the sweet sight, "Come here sweet boy," she croons, bending down to pick him up. She sometimes finds it hard to believe that such a sweet child can exist in a world like this, that evil men had no issue holding up a gun to his head.

It makes her feel even worse about what happened last night.

A week ago she was fearing for her life and now she's having sexual relations with their father. What the hell is wrong with her?

He's probably stressed, she tells herself while watching the girls interact with Sejanus, he just needed to blow off some steam, this'll all blow over by the end of the week.

And it will. She'll work up the courage to talk to Coriolanus about all of this, get their relationship back on a professional track, and move forward.

Simple as that.

"Are you coming to the party Sejanus?" Ceraphina's question reminds Soarynn about the party that they'll be throwing at the end of the year. She's a bit surprised that Coriolanus is still going through with it but at the same time, she understands his need for normalcy and moving forward. If you dwindle in the past for too long, you're bound to be left behind.

And Soarynn refuses to be left behind.

"I am," Sejanus confirms with a nod of his head, "I can't wait to see you two tear it up on the dance floor again." The girls giggle at the memory of the last party they had but it only brings up more sour memories for Soarynn who only remembers how the night ended for her.

She presses a kiss to Caspian's blonde hair, if he hadn't spoken up for her, she might not be in this position right now.

She just doesn't know if that's a bad thing or a good thing.

꧁ ꧂

"Coriolanus, I wanted to discuss what our professional relationship has turned into. We're both adults and I would never want to jeopardize my job for the sake of physical intimacy."

Soarynn nods at her reflection in the mirror, "Just say that and you'll be fine," she mumbles, raking her fingers through her hair. The children are finally asleep and she's getting nervous. She could just go to bed, and pretend nothing happened last night but that would be childish, not to mention highly unprofessional.

As if kissing him while straddling him isn't considered unprofessional.

Still, one must make necessary strides toward things that are important to them. And keeping her job and not abandoning her children is very important to her.

Soarynn takes a few deep breaths before she feels prepared to face him. But it’ll feel like a long walk to his study. That’s fine, she can think about her stupid mentions and their consequences on the way down the hall.

Soarynn quietly opens her doors so she doesn’t somehow wake the children and can’t hide her look of surprise when she sees an Avox waiting outside of her bedroom. The Snows only hire Avoxes to do things such as cleaning and waiting on them so that no private information can be spread.

Soarynn has often shuddered at the thought of losing her tongue. How would she sing and laugh?

She swallows, taking a step back when the placid faced Avox moves towards her, holding out something in their hand. It takes her a moment to realize that it’s a letter. A letter that looks identical to the one she had waiting for her in her closet when she first moved in.

Soarynn takes the letter.

“Thank you,” she says quietly, only getting a silent nod in reply. Well, she can’t expect much.

She closes the doors behind her, the original mission long forgotten as she tears open the letter, breaking the seal with a rose embossed on it.

Her fingers shake as she unfolds the perfectly folded paper.

Soarynn, You won’t find me in my study tonight, some work-related issues have been brought to my attention and as you know, I intend to solve every problem sent my way. As for the growing problem between us, allow me to offer my deepest apologies for any pain I might have caused you. If I moved too fast or hurt you in any way please know that was never my intention. Despite the internal struggles within our complex relationship, I still find myself drawn to you like a moth to a flame. You’ll find me to be a terribly possessive man who doesn’t back down from a fight easily. Whenever you’re ready, I trust you’ll know where to find me. Until then, sleep well and look after my children for me. Yours truly, Coriolanus

Soarynn nearly crumples the letter in her hands. How is it possible for a man to make her feel so many things at once?

He knows what he’s doing, she’ll give him that. But why her? There’s a part of her that still worries this might just be a ploy to get into her pants. The other part, the optimistic part, thinks and hopes that this might be more. That Coriolanus might see her as an equal, as someone to cherish and spend time with.

She just wishes she could figure out which one she’d prefer.

But after reading that letter, it seems she has no choice but to play his little game. It’s fine, she tells herself, thinking about those men who were so easily sniped from the shore, those men whose lives were so easily discarded by Coriolanus.

There are much worse games to play.

| Part 8. |

| tumblr oneshot/drabble |

{ Part 9. }

꧁| tag list: @lovelylove268 @strawberriicakes @kickmybark @iswearicanfixhim @wonderlandbound111 @melodyoflovee @thevoicesinmyprettylittlehead |꧂

[slaymitchabernathy]

The Nanny

The morning of the most important day in Soarynn's life feels like a normal morning. She wakes up next to Coriolanus whose arms are wrapped around her as if she might fall off the bed in the middle of the night, his nose buried in the crook of her neck because he's never been too fond of personal space.

She doesn't mind it though, waking up next to someone who loves her is still something she's getting used to.

Waking up next to the man she's going to marry is another thing entirely.

The day Coriolanus proposed to her was the single happiest day of her life. Everything had been perfect. Even though she had a large suspicion that he'd propose, he still caught her off guard. It had been private which she appreciated more than he'd ever know.

Soarynn still had never been inside of the greenhouse so on a warm July night, when Coriolanus would normally be in the Control Room with the Gamemakers overseeing the Hunger Games, he finally took her to see it. Soarynn had been speechless when she was finally granted access to the famed greenhouse, amazed at the different colored roses. She had been so focused on the roses that she hadn't even noticed the trail of rose petals leading to the center of the greenhouse where there was a fountain.

Coriolanus had truly gone above and beyond with the proposal, from the soft candlelight to the petals floating in the fountain water to making sure that her nails were done. When Soarynn finally realized what was happening, she was instantly moved to tears, overwhelmed with emotion. He got down on one knee and pulled out a velvet box that held her engagement ring.

He confessed his love for her right then and there, telling her that he'd never been more certain about wanting to spend the rest of his life with someone. He told her how much he valued her, how she made his family a better family, and how it would make him the happiest man alive if she were to marry him.

She said yes.

How could she say no?

There had been tears from both of them as he slipped the beautiful ring on her finger. Soarynn admires the ring right now as the morning sunlight spills into their bedroom. They have a million things to do right now, she has to get ready, get dressed, and make it down the aisle without tripping. Coriolanus being a man has it a little easier but as the President of Panem, he's still got his hands full.

They broke the news of their engagement two days after the Hunger Games ended where surprise, surprise, there was a huge party to celebrate with the tablecloths Soarynn had picked out with Eudora. All of his friends and her friends were there to congratulate them on their engagement and the children were ecstatic. The girls kept running around the ballroom telling everyone that their father was marrying a princess. Even Caspian seemed excited, constantly touching Soarynn's engagement ring.

Soarynn and Coriolanus went on Lucky's television show a few days after the new Hunger Games Victor was interviewed and Lucky asked them all sorts of questions about what the wedding would be like. Coriolanus told him that it would take place in the winter as all Snow weddings do per tradition and Soarynn isn't one to mess with tradition. Certainly not the tradition of the family she's about to marry into.

Lucky also asked about the guest list, making sure he was included, and decided that it would be the wedding of the century. Everyone in the country would be watching today.

A million things could go wrong but Soarynn refuses to be ruled by fear. Today is their day and she's going to enjoy it.

She should probably get up though, she'd like to have some tea before their room becomes a blur of chaos with the children and all of the assistants Eudora has procured to make sure that today goes perfectly. Eudora of course, planned the entire wedding and Soaarynn was there for every step of it. While Coriolanus was busy working, Soarynn was busy planning and looking after the children. He'd suggested hiring a part-time nanny but Soarynn quickly shut that down. She could do both. She could be a wife a mother and the First Lady.

Another daunting task. Marrying Coriolanus meant that Soarynn would now forever be in the public eye. The First Lady of Panem. Over the past four months, Eudora has been preparing Soarynn to take on all of the responsibilities that Livia used to have. This included making numerous public appearances during the week for things like charity events, grand openings, museum galleries, and other things that were important, but not important enough to warrant the President's attendance.

Soarynn would be representing the family and she could not afford to fail.

She honestly didn't know how she'd manage it sometimes, the children, her husband, her appearances. She'd simply have to figure it out as she went along. At least she only had to worry about two of the children for most of the day now that Ceraphian was in school five days a week.

Soarynn would be lying through her teeth if she said that she didn't cry on Ceraphina's first day of school.

She and Coriolanus were newly engaged when they dropped Ceraphina off in front of the Academy's steps. Ceraphina had been so excited to finally go to school. They already met her teacher a few days before and she was smitten by Mrs. McDowell. Soarynn had honestly hoped that she might have some reservations about leaving her family for several hours a day but she gave everyone one final hug before skipping up the steps.

And of course, her assigned bodyguard was right behind her.

Coriolanus had been very adamant about Ceraphina having a bodyguard when she attended school and Soarynn couldn't find it in herself to argue with him, not after what happened in Four. Ceraphina didn't mind Maximus and his constant presence, in fact, she loved it because it meant that she always had someone to talk to.

The issues started when Coriolanus informed Soarynn that she would also be assigned a bodyguard. This information started the biggest argument the couple had ever had.

"I will not be followed around everywhere I go by one of your men," Soarynn had told her, furious that he thought she needed to be constantly watched over like a child.

"My love," he had said, pacing his study when she came to him with the argument, "your safety is of utmost importance. Once we're married, you'll be the second most important person in the country. I'd be a fool to let you walk around without protection. It's not up for discussion darling."

Soarynn had glared daggers at him when hearing his reasoning, "So it's already been decided then? You already discussed this and forgot to include me in the conversation? I don't want to be followed around Coriolanus, I already feel self-conscious as it is."

Their argument had ended with the slamming of doors and the spilling of frustrated tears. Coriolanus had later found Soarynn curled up in bed not wanting to talk to him until he apologized and changed his mind. He apologized but he didn't change his mind and Soarynn was introduced to Grant a few days later, a man dedicated to her safety.

Soarynn hadn't been too sure of Grant in the beginning. He was a quiet man, very reserved, only answering her questions with curt, short answers. He never hovered, never made her feel like she was being watched and he never made her feel uncomfortable. All of those factors made Soarynn feel a little bit better about the whole situation and now she can't remember a time when Grant wasn't following her around.

He'll be at the wedding obviously, scanning through the crowd to make sure that no one poses a threat to the President or his fiance.

Oh, his fiance. Soarynn loved that word, loved using it, loved calling Coriolanus her fiance and she loved it when he called her his fiance.

And before the sun sets tonight, they'll be husband and wife.

She can hardly wait.

Soarynn expertly slips out of her fiance's grip, her feet touch the wood floors a moment later and she quietly pads over to their bedroom doors and cracks them open. As always, an Avox is stationed outside in the hallway. From the time the sun rises to when it sets, there's always an Avox outside of their room, waiting on their beck and call.

"Could I please get some tea?" Soarynn asks, her voice merely a whisper so she doesn't wake up Coriolanus, he got home so late last night, "And some coffee as well?" The Avox nods since that's all they can really do before leaving to go fetch her requested drinks. Coriolanus had been finalizing things for their wedding, making sure all the documents were in order.

It amazed Soarynn how much paperwork was needed when marrying the President of Panem. Things like her birth certificate were to be expected but she was subjected to blood testing and her family lineage and history being researched. She was tested on other things as well, including her fertility which they'd get the results for later this week.

Soarynn couldn't wait to get married so they could have a baby together. She knew it was a little childish, but to grow a child inside of her was a dream she'd had for so long and it was finally coming true. She turns back to their large bed, watching Coriolanus sleep without a worry in the world while she simply imagines a crib next to their bed. The girls would love another little sibling and it would be nice for Caspian to have someone else to play with.

She can't wait.

꧁ ꧂

The tea and coffee arrive a few minutes later on a silver tray, piping hot and Soarynn thanks the Avox before she brings it to her bedside table. She carefully climbs back into bed, her knees sinking into the soft mattress as she crawls next to Coriolanus, resting a hand on his smooth cheek, "Coryo," she whispers, "wake up."

Coriolanus groans, pushing her hand away to roll over to his stomach, "Let me sleep in darling," he grumbles with that deep voice that always makes her feel some type of way, "I had a long night." Soarynn scratches his back with her perfectly manicured nails, the week leading up to their wedding has been filled with appointments. Soarynn got her hair cut and her body hair waxed. Her nails and toenails were perfectly manicured and she got a facial.

She's ready for tonight. Ready to finally lose her virginity.

A Capitol woman's virginity is a sacred thing that must be guarded at all costs if she plans on having a successful, prosperous marriage. If Soarynn and Coriolanus weren't in the public eye like they are, she has no doubt that they would've already had sex before. But because all eyes are on them, certain things are expected of them including consummating the marriage. She knows how badly Coriolanus had wanted her in the past, how he's whispered in her ear about taking her in every single position possible but he's a man, and a traditional one at that.

So they waited.

And good things come to those who wait.

Soarynn leans over until her lips hover over the shell of his ear, "Well tonight is going to be an even longer night," she purrs, feeling his back muscles tense from her teasing. That seems to do the trick in waking him up because he's pushing himself from the mattress a second later, putting his biceps on full display, "You certainly know how to give a wake-up call," he says, grinning up at her.

Soarynn grins back at him, it's hard to remember the time when they only exchanged a few words here and there with each other. Now they're inseparable. "That's why you're marrying me," she tells him while grabbing his cup of coffee from the tray, "because of my excellent wake-up calls." His eyes light up at the sight of the coffee, Soarynn doesn't particularly care for it but she knows that Coriolanus can't function without it.

There had been one time when just as he was about to reach for his cup, holding the last amount of coffee they had in the house, when Celeste tipped it over and he was forced to go through the day without any caffeine. He only spoke in grunts and hand gestures.

He gingerly takes the cup from her and sits his back against the headboard, putting his toned torso on display with an arrogant look on his face, "I was a big fan of the wake-up call I received the other day," he tells her, a playful glint in his blue eyes.

Soarynn blushes while remembering how she mustered up the courage to give him a blowjob to get him up. It had been a last resort really and Coriolanus Snow has been blessed with a very gorgeous cock that she just can't get enough of. Hearing him groan and moan her name while he withered in the sheets made up for her sore jaw.

Giving him head for the first time ever had been a daunting task since she'd never done it before but Coriolanus was surprisingly patient and took things slow with her, never forcing her to do anything she didn't want to do. Now she was in her opinion, quite the expert when it came to getting her fiance off.

"You might be lucky and receive a similar one tomorrow," she replies, grabbing her own cup of tea and bringing it to her lips. They stay like that for a moment, Soarynn sitting on her knees while Coriolanus sits against the headboard, not saying a thing but completely content in one another's company. He rests a hand on her knee, always needing to have some sort of physical contact with her.

In the beginning, Soarynn thought his touchiness was something only reserved for the bedroom. How wrong she had been. It only took one dinner with some of his advisors for Soarynn to learn that Coriolanus Snow was a man who craved dominance and touch at all times. It was her mistake for wearing a red dress that was backless, clinging to her figure beautifully.

He hadn't been able to keep his hands to himself all night despite being in the presence of the most influential men in Panem. A hand on her shoulder, her back, her thigh, her hand, her face. He loved touching her. Not even in a sexual way, but in a grounding way.

Soarynn loved it, she wasn't as touchy as Coriolanus but she never minded it when he felt the need to close the distance between them. She loved being by his side, holding his arm, resting a hand on his cheek while she stared up at him adoringly.

She never knew she could be this in love with someone.

Tigris often teased her about it, how she only thought about Coriolanus but she couldn't help it! Eudora called it "the honeymoon phase" a time when couples were obsessed with one another. It would fizzle out and Soarynn would be able to spend more than five minutes away from Coriolanus but she couldn't see that happening anytime soon.

Petunia hops onto the bed, slowly padding over to Soarynn to get her morning attention she needs to survive the day with. "Good morning little lady," Soarynn says, scratching behind her ears. Petunia purrs and leans into her touch, flopping onto her back for the maximum amount of pets, Coriolanus chuckles, "She's going to go ballistic when we aren't here tomorrow." Soarynn rolls her eyes but continues rubbing Petunia's belly, "I do wish you'd let her come with us. She needs me."

Coriolanus presses his fingers further into her skin, "Darling, it's two days, not two weeks." Soarynn pouts but he remains firm in his decision to not include Petunia in their honeymoon plans. "We've just never been apart like this," she mumbles, knowing damn well they have been apart like this before but she won't be the one to bring that up.

Coriolanus watches Petunia as her tail bumps his elbow, "I think you two will survive."

Where they would go after their wedding sparked up many discussions. Soarynn didn't feel comfortable leaving the children for too long but Coriolanus didn't feel like having the children tag along on what normally was a private, intimate trip for a newlywed couple. Soarynn also didn't want to go to the Districts again, not after what happened in Four. In an effort to have some time alone together, they came to the agreement that they'd have a small honeymoon at the Nightingale townhouse.

Soarynn felt it was the perfect compromise. Coriolanus got to have her all to himself for two whole days and if something were to come up, they were only a short car ride away from the Mansion. And the townhouse itself is huge, large enough to house an entire family let alone two people. Soarynn often felt that it was too big for her and her father but moving out of her childhood home seemed less than desirable as she finished her last years at school.

She was really just excited to have some feeling of normalcy for the next few days. They would, of course, have security surrounding the house at all times but she had insisted on having no staff inside the house to wait on them. If they wanted breakfast then she would cook breakfast. She also made sure that Coriolanus wouldn't be doing any work while on their honeymoon, not even a phone call.

She wanted him all to herself.

"I can't believe today is the day," she murmurs, thinking back to her first day ever stepping foot into the Snow household, "remember when you told me that me getting hired had nothing to do with my family name?" Coriolanus sputters while swallowing his coffee, sitting up even straighter in bed, "It didn't!" He claims, giving her a look, "Yes, I knew your father, but you getting hired truly had nothing to do with you being a Nightingale. The last time I ever saw your father was at my own father's funeral."

Soarynn vaguely remembers the funeral. Coriolanus had been twenty so she had been fourteen, too young to truly grasp the loss of a citizen like Crassus Xanthos Snow. Still, she attended the high society funeral with the rest of their circles, wearing all black while standing by her father's side.

She hadn't even seen Coriolanus at the funeral even though he was in attendance. She did hear lots of whispers about the only remaining Snow, how some thought he might take over his father's business while others whispered about him running for President. Running for President at twenty years old seemed impossible to Soarynn at the time but Coriolanus won by a landslide.

The people in the Capitol loved him. He was everything they wanted in a leader, young, driven, dedicated, and very attractive.

"Snow and Nightingale," she muses, "who would've thought?"

Not her. Not a million years would she have thought about one day marrying Coriolanus Snow and yet it feels as if it's the only thing for her to do now.

Coriolanus chuckles and carefully sets his cup of coffee back down on the tray before holding his hand out to her, "Come here." Soarynn is more than happy to oblige, setting her own drink down and crawling onto his lap, straddling him while his hands easily slip under her blue nightgown.

Soarynn tilts her head and presses her lips to his, both of them moving in perfect synchronized harmony. His hands squeeze her waist while her hips begin to move with his, so close yet so far. She can already feel him hardening under her barely covered cunt, making her whimper, "Oh fuck," she moans, tilting her head back while Coriolanus kisses up and down her neck, sucking on the tender skin.

Soarynn digs her nails into his shoulders, "Coryo we can't," she reminds him, "no bruises or marks." Eudora had given them quite the lecture the other night about making sure that they were blemish-free for their wedding day, mostly focusing her attention and threats on Coriolanus who's known for his inability to keep his hands to himself.

But he doesn't take lightly to keeping his hands to himself.

"Yes we can," he mumbles, sliding his hands down to her ass, slipping his fingers under the thin waistband of her panties. Just as he's about to pull them down, they hear a knock and the sound of their door handles being fumbled with. It's only a matter of seconds before the children are spilling into their room and Soarynn is throwing herself off of Coriolanus and under the covers.

"It's wedding day!" Ceraphina says, a big smile on her face as she runs over to the bed, Celeste and Caspian right behind her. Soarynn brushes her hair behind her ears, embarrassed and flustered that she's been found like this in such a scandalous position with their father. Coriolanus only seems to be amused by her behavior and pulls the sheets over their laps before turning his attention to his children who eagerly try to climb into bed with them, "It's also rude to barge into people's rooms without getting permission," he reminds his oldest who only bats her eyelashes up at him. "Oops," she says with an innocent shrug before finally getting onto the bed.

Soarynn smiles at Ceraphina who eagerly stands up on the mattress, jumping up and down, "You're getting married! You're getting married! Today you're getting married!"

Coriolanus scoops Celeste off of the floor and tosses her onto the bed, grinning when she shrieks, "Daddy!"

Soarynn and Coriolanus laugh when she sticks her tongue out at her father, something she would've never done a year ago. Because a year ago, the children saw their father one hour a day, no more, no less. But things have changed, he has changed, and for the better.

Someone pulls at the pillow Soarynn is sitting against and she looks down at her side of the bed to find Caspian reaching up for her, "Momma." Soarynn smiles and happily pulls him up and onto her lap, peppering his face with kisses, "Good morning my sweet boy. Did you sleep well?"

Caspian watches both his sisters jump up and down, giggling while their curls fly loose, "Lenny have wedding," he finally tells Soarynn with a very determined look in his eyes. Both Soarynn and Coriolanus sigh at his insistence on bringing Lenny to the wedding, something Coriolanus has loudly protested since the idea was brought up. Soarynn doesn't really mind it, Caspian will be sitting with his sisters and Eudora at the very front so it's natural for him to want Lenny to comfort him. Soarynn won't be able to wipe away any tears should there be any.

"Lenny can come to the wedding darling," she tells him, pushing back some of his more unruly curls away from his eyes. His hair has been growing so much these past few months and it's further confirmed that he'll look just like Coriolanus when he gets older. She wisely ignores the look that Coriolanus gives her, not caring how childish it might seem to bring a stuffed animal. Livia gave it to him so it only makes sense for him to find comfort in Lenny.

"When're you gonna put on your wedding dress Soarynn?" Celeste asks, flopping onto the bed after growing tired from jumping. Both girls had accompanied Soarynn to all of her wedding dress fittings. She didn't just want to buy something off of the rack, not when this was predicted to be the wedding of the century. Coriolanus of course insisted that she get her dress custom-made, only the best for his future wife. Soarynn had gone to Tigris, a trusted friend and fashion designer who had taken off after making two princess dresses for Ceraphina and Celeste.

Soarynn never knew how much went into making a wedding dress, and how many measurements and decisions had to be made. She had seen photos of Livia's dress, long-sleeved with a high collar that went up to her chin. She decided to go in the opposite route, wanting her dress to be different and to represent her as a person.

Soarynn tickles Caspian's chin before answering, "Soon darling. I have to get my hair and makeup done first."

Both girls gasp at the idea of having their hair and makeup done professionally, another thing that Coriolanus insisted on. Soarynn barely wears any makeup as is, just some blush, mascara, and a bit of concealer when needed but she was rather excited to be in professional hands today. It took the pressure off of her.

"Can we get our makeup done too Daddy?"

Coriolanus immediately shakes his head, a more stern look grows across his handsome facial features, "Absolutely not darling, you two don't need any makeup. Ever." The girls frown, looking at Coriolanus and then Soarynn, a rebuttal already forming, "Well Soarynn is wearing makeup. And she's the prettiest person ever," Ceraphina points out, effectively putting Coriolanus on the spot.

Soarynn turns to Coriolanus, her eyebrows raised, "She's right darling, what're you trying to say? Am I not beautiful to you?" She's only teasing but it's fun to keep Coriolanus on his toes, especially with the girl's help. He immediately turns red in the face, realizing he's been cornered by the three most important girls in his life, "No! No you are darling," he reaches over to grab her hand, "you breathe life into everything around you. Without you, the sun would cease to shine."

Ceraphina sighs and dramatically flings herself onto the bed, "How romantic." Soarynn chuckles, squeezing his hand to let him know that all is forgiven, "We really should start getting ready, Eudora will be up here before we know it."

Eudora Trinket is a woman of exact science, planning everything down to the last detail. Soarynn isn't even worried about the wedding, not when Eudora is planning it. She's more worried about things that can not be controlled such as the weather and other human beings. But one glance out the window lets her know that it'll be a bright and sunny day in the midst of winter.

"Can't we stay a little longer?" Celeste whines, crawling over to Soarynn to rest her head on the pillow, "Just for a few more minutes?" Soarynn runs a loving hand through Celeste's curls, they'll have to be properly styled for today, "A few more minutes," she agrees, "then we must get up and start our day."

That seems like more than enough for the children who all quickly make themselves at home, nuzzling against either Soarynn or Coriolanus under the covers. It's a sweet, wonderful feeling to be surrounded by this much love all at once. Soarynn keeps an arm wrapped around Caspian while Celeste cuddles Soarynn's side, a dreamy smile on her lips. Ceraphina rests her head on her father's chest, already sleeping again while Coriolanus absentmindedly strokes up and down her back while his eyes are closed. Soarynn knows he's not really sleeping, that he's just "resting his eyes" but it's still a sweet memory that she'll keep tucked away.

Soarynn feels herself drifting back to sleep, almost fully dreaming when there's a loud knock at the doors, "Rise and shine!" Eudora calls from the other side, causing everyone to groan as they're woken up again. Soarynn sits up, rubbing her eyes, "Looks like Eudora's here," she mumbles, swinging her feet over the side of the bed. She gently picks up Caspian and holds him on her hip while she pads over to the doors, Petunia hops off the foot of the bed and follows her, curious to see who's knocking so loudly.

The moment she opens the doors she's greeted by the blinding sight of Eudora's new wig, bright red for the occasion. "Oh my," she says, squinting up at the intricately styled hairdo, "what a...what a piece of art Eudora." The older woman pats her hair as if it's a sculpture, "Thank you, dear, I had it saved for an occasion such as this one. And I see everyone is in one place, how wonderful. Coriolanus, get dressed and get out, it's time for the bride to get ready."

Coriolanus shoots her a teasing look from their bed, making no moves to get up for the day, "What's wrong with what I'm wearing right now?" He asks, flexing his bare arms for added effect. Eudora merely rolls her eyes in response, not at all phased by her boss being almost naked, "I could name several things but I'd rather not hurt your feelings, now, let's get you situated dear," she says, guiding Soarynn over to the sofa, "the Preps will be here any minute along with your friend Tigris."

While Coriolanus begrudgingly goes into the bathroom to put on some actual clothes, Soarynn occupies the children by telling them about the cake they'll be having tonight. "It's seven tiers," she says, letting Caspian rest his head on her chest, "with vanilla frosting and lots of roses."

"Will there be a chocolate fountain?"

"Yes, darling."

"And ice cream?"

"Yes, darling."

Coriolanus comes back out of the bathroom wearing a pair of pants and a red sweater, extremely casual for a man who wears a suit and tie every single day but he'll be getting ready in one of their many guest rooms, "Alright Cas, let's give the ladies some space," he reaches over the couch for his youngest child who's reluctant to let go of Soarynn. "I'll see you soon sweet boy," she promises before carefully handing him over to Coriolanus, "Soon," Caspian repeats with the nod of his head.

Coriolanus smiles and leans over the sofa, pressing a kiss to Soarynn's cheek, "The next time I'll see you will be at the altar."

What an exhilarating thought. Soarynn feels goosebumps growing all over her body as she turns to look up at him adoringly, "I'll see you at the altar," she agrees, letting him kiss her one more time before they officially become husband and wife. The girls, of course, sigh at the romantic gesture and bid their father goodbye, promising to see him later when they're throwing rose petals down the aisle.

The girls had begged to be the flower girls and Soarynn could hardly deny them of such an important role. Caspian turned down the job of being the ring bearer the second it was brought up, clearly not as interested in being involved with the wedding as his sisters were.

Soarynn lets out a sigh, it's strange to be without Coriolanus now, even though they usually spend the majority of their days apart. But the past week has been so wonderful, he has been so wonderful, seeing her more often, spending more time with her in the mornings, waking her up with kisses and hugs.

But the girls don't let the silence linger long. They begin asking more questions about the guests, the music, the clothes, all questions that Eudora easily answers. Soarynn tunes the conversation out for the most part, simply enjoying the moment before it's over. A quiet knock at the doors causes them to all fall silent and Eudora rushes over to answer it, Soarynn and the girls crane their necks to see who it is but Eudora is in the way. She turns to face them a second later, a triumphant look on her face, "Everything is ready! Right this way!"

꧁ ꧂

Soarynn has never been so taken care of in her life.

Sitting in the room that used to be hers, she finds herself in a comfortable chair while four women work simultaneously to prepare her for the big day. The Preps, a Prep Team from the Hunger Games are well versed in their craft. There's Imogen who has been doing Soarynn's makeup for the past hour, keeping it per Soarynn's request, natural yet glowy. Jadis has been tackling Soarynn's long hair, styling it so that it looks absolutely perfect for when she walks down the aisle. Lavender has been applying all sorts of lotions and potions to Soarynn's skin to ensure that it looks as healthy as can be. And lastly, Olympia has been overseeing all of the progress while helping Tigris with Soarynn's wedding dress.

"Oh, it's just so exciting!" Jadis exclaims, taking another piece of Soarynn's hair to curl it, "Capitol weddings are always so gorgeous and yours is going to be the most gorgeous we've ever seen sweetie!"

Soarynn blushes, she's never been given this much attention in her life but these four women have dedicated all of their time to making her feel as beautiful as possible. She already felt beautiful when Tigris gifted her a beautiful white silk robe with a matching nightgown for her to wear while getting ready. The girls had been obsessed with it and luckily, Tigris thought ahead and made the girls smaller versions of Soarynn's dress as well so that they could match.

"I just can't wait to see him," Soarynn says, admiring her engagement ring once again. Coriolanus got her a rock to put it lightly. A large diamond that's surrounded by smaller diamonds all with gold hardware. She can't even imagine what the wedding ring will look like.

All the women take a moment to admire the ring, fawning over it and the details that went into designing it, "It's stunning," Imogen gushes, "he must be terribly in love with you." Soarynn nods along to her words, a smile gracing her lips, "He is," she agrees.

"Daddy and Soarynn are gonna kiss at the end of the wedding right?" Celeste asks Eudora, tugging on her dress. Eudora has been busy all morning, coming in and out of the room to check on Soarynn's progress, "Yes dear, they'll say their vows, exchange their rings and kiss," Eudora confirms, "and they'll stay on schedule."

Tigris and Olympia fluff out Soarynn's dress even more, checking for any wrinkles or snags it might have gotten while being transported from her boutique. According to Tigris, people have been looking through her shop windows, desperate to get a glimpse of the dress before it's big reveal.

Soarynn had decided to go with a strapless dress, showing off a classy amount of cleavage while also showing off her shoulders and collarbones. The dress has somewhat of a corseted bodice, accentuating her small waist while remaining pleasing to the eye. The majority of the dress is made up of tulle, lots of expensive, layered tulle, giving the illusion of a large gown. It's been so tediously layered, cut in specific ways to give the dress shape and organic flow. The top layers of the dress gather at the back, making for a flattering shape along with some dramatic flair. Most importantly, it doesn't weigh a thousand pounds.

Soarynn has tried on several versions of the dress over the past few months, changing little details here and there and she couldn't be happier with the final outcome. It's a dress that represents her, sophisticated yet light and airy. For her shoes, she went with classic white high heels, and for jewelry, she kept it simple with pearl earrings.

"What if you trip?" Ceraphina asks, causing all the women to shudder in horror, Soarynn presses a smile onto her lips, "Let's hope I don't."

Eudora shakes her head, "No tripping, no falling, no arguing," she narrows her eyes at the girls who do their best to look innocent, "I have personally counted the number of petals in each of your baskets and I can confirm that you both have an equal amount."

Soarynn holds in a laugh, the girls love to argue about things being fair and equal and Eudora has clearly come prepared for anything they might throw at her today. "Why don't we get you girls dressed?" Tigris suggests, pointing at their pink flower girl dresses. They're made of similar material to Soarynn's dress, tulle for the gown itself, and velvet for their bodices. It had been so adorable to see the girls getting to make their own flower girl dresses, picking out different little details they wanted incorporated such as roses on the sleeves.

While Soarynn's dress doesn't have any roses, her bouquet certainly does, all fresh from the greenhouse. She decided on an all-white bouquet to keep with the theme.

"So you all normally work with Tributes?" She asks the Preps, tilting her head to the side so Imogen can powder her face, "Oh yes sweetie. We work with all the Tributes from District Two, which means we get to come to the party at the end of his Victory Tour!"

This year's Hunger Games had been a blur for Soarynn if she was being honest. She hadn't paid much attention to it once she got engaged but she remembers watching the boy from Two, Beckett, win by cutting his remaining opponent clean down the middle with a sword he was gifted by one of his sponsors. A brutal, gory way to die but he wore a bright smile while he did it, making her stomach turn.

Coriolanus had commented on how Beckett was as cunning as they were bred in the Districts. Which led Soarynn to really think about how true that was. Children in the Districts were either raised as killers or those who would be killed, told that the Tributes from their Districts never won and that they'd never have a fighting chance. District Two is well known for training their children at a special academy until they turn eighteen so they can then volunteer.

Soarynn looks gazes into the bathroom where Tigris is chatting away with the girls, she can't imagine Ceraphina or Celeste training for the Hunger Games at such a young age with sunken cheeks and brittle bones. She should talk to Coriolanus about that, see what she can do.

"How exciting," she murmurs, not feeling as chatty as she was a moment ago. Becoming First Lady means having to make public appearances, it means having to support things like the Hunger Games, something Soarynn has done her best to ignore up until this point. Not on purpose, she's just never cared for the pageantry of it, and neither did her father.

Oh, her father. She wishes he could be here to see this, to walk her down the aisle and give her away. That's truly her one regret about today, not having him here.

"You'll get to meet him too," Lavender says chipperly, lathering another layer of lotion onto Soarynn's chest, "the party will be your first public appearance with your new husband!"

It certainly will be. Soarynn hasn't even thought that far ahead but the Preps clearly have. "I can't wait," she replies, looking into the bathroom again when she hears the girls giggling, "it'll be nice for things to get back to normal." Since the proposal, everything has been different, their schedules, how she's been treated, it's been a whole new world for Soarynn Nightingale.

She just hopes she likes it.

꧁ ꧂

Three hours later, Soarynn is ready.

She admires her reflection in the floor-length mirror, turning her head as instructed by Olympia to make sure that nothing needs to be changed before departing.

Her face looks stunning, even she can admit that. Imogen nailed the look she was going for, natural yet enhanced. Imogen gave her a rosy cheek while giving her more of a sultry eye look with a bit of eyeliner to make her blue-gray eyes pop. She's mostly happy to see her freckles shining through, something she's become more adamant about since Coriolanus keeps complimenting her natural complexion.

For her hair, Soarynn wanted something simple yet elegant and requested an updo to really give the dress its moment to shine. Jadis did amazing work with her long blonde hair, styling it in a bun with face-framing pieces, keeping it loose but not too loose. She also added a few bobby pins with white roses on them, tucking them into the bun to tie in the rose theme that Coriolanus seems to adore so much.

Soarynn has never seen her skin look so good before. Lavender truly lathered on the lotions, making sure that Soarynn's skin wasn't just healthy, but soft and smooth, glowing even.

And the dress, oh the dress is perfect. Soarynn holds out her arms and does a twirl, earning her several delighted gasps and a round of applause. "Oh, you look beautiful dear," Eudora tells her, "just beautiful." The girls bounce on their toes, watching all the women chat amongst themselves, "Soarynn you look just like a princess," Celeste says, doing a curtsy in her own dress.

Soarynn smiles, carefully crouching down so they're at eye level, "Thank you, darling. You two look so, so beautiful, your father is going to love your dresses." Both of the girls light up when she mentions their father, "Can we go see Daddy?"

Eudora checks another thing off of her list, Soarynn had stolen a glance at it earlier and truly couldn't fathom having such a responsibility. "Yes, in fact, we're right on schedule which should allow for Coriolanus to see the girls before we all depart," she announces, "come along girls, your father will be very pleased with your dresses."

Soarynn waves to the girls as they follow Eudora out of the room and into the hallway, the room suddenly feeling quieter and emptier. Petunia slips in right before the doors close, running right to Soarynn, "They're just so precious," Jadis says, reaching her hand out to Petunia who curiously sniffs it before looking up at Soarynn who hums in agreement. "They really are the sweetest children," Soarynn says, bending down to pick up Petunia, "I can't wait for us to all become one big family."

Soarynn had spent one afternoon in October in her fiance's study signing document after document that would give her legal custody of all three children. None of these documents would go into effect until she said "I do" but it made all of this feel much more real. In a few hours, she'd have three children. Three darling children who she loved with all her heart.

Tigris fluffs out the dress some more, fussing with the tulle, "They're very lucky to have you, he is very lucky to have you. Don't forget that."

Soarynn sighs, it's hard to remember when it all feels like a dream with Coriolanus. The house, the money, the children, the power. He's a dream come true. But so is she. Tigris is right, she'd do well to remember that she is also quite the catch.

"I know," she replies, rocking Petunia back and forth in her arms, "it's just hard to believe that a year ago I just started working here again as a live-in nanny"

A year ago feels like a century ago to Soarynn who feels as if she's lived ten lives the past twelve months. A year ago she and Coriolanus were dancing with their hands tied so to speak and now, she's going to marry him.

"We should take some photos," Lavender suggests, "I'll go find the photographer."

Another thing Soarynn has been preparing herself for, the photos. Eudora hired a few photographers herself but every news and media outlet in the country will be covering the wedding today. It's to be broadcast throughout all of Panem and all of its citizens are required to watch. Soarynn wonders if people will watch with bitterness or amazement.

Probably bitterness. She's seen how the Districts feel about people like her and she wasn't even a Snow then, she was just the nanny.

Now she'll be in the public eye, to either be built up or torn down.

Coriolanus has assured her multiple times that no one would dare utter a word against her but she knows that people talk, his reign can't extended over everything all at once. Snow won't always land on top.

Lavender appears a few minutes later with a photographer and Eudora along with the girls who are giggling, "We showed Daddy our dresses!" Ceraphina tells Soarynn, running over to pet Petunia who gladly welcomes the attention. "What did he say?" Soarynn asks, carefully handing Petunia over to Ceraphina who gladly takes her, holding her like a baby, "He said he looked beautiful and that we were the prettiest little girls in Panem." Celeste nods along to her sister's recap, petting Petunia's head, "And he said we look very grown up," she adds.

Eudora chuckles, smoothing down Ceraphina's hair that's being held back by a white headband, "I think he cried a little, but he'll claim it was some dust that got into his eyes." Eudora and Soarynn share a grin, Coriolanus is a man who remains stoic in every situation.

But he's always had a soft spot for his girls.

"Let's get one with Ms. Nightingale and the cat," the photographer suggests, earning him a meow from Petunia who simply wishes to be held, by who, she doesn't care.

Soarynn takes Petunia back into her arms, smiling for the camera.

They take some more photos, some of Soarynn with the girls, and some of her alone sitting in one of the armchairs or looking into the mirror. Eudora said that there will be an entire magazine spread dedicated to the details of their wedding. After enough photos are taken, the Preps and Tigris take their leave, pressing kisses to Soarynn's cheeks and promising to see her at the wedding.

"Looks like it's just us again," she says to the girls, watching Petunia run around the room. Ceraphina smiles, "Yep! Now we get to go to the wedding and throw the flower petals!"

"Just like we practiced," Eudora reminds her before things can get out of hand, "you two will walk down the aisle side by side, throw the petals, and then you'll sit in the front row on the left side. Right?"

Celeste tilts her head, looking confused even though they rehearsed all of this two days ago, "We go left?"

Eudora nods, "Right."

"We go right?"

"No dear, left."

"Okay, left."

"Right."

"I think we need to practice again Eudora."

Soarynn laughs at their dilemma and rests a reassuring hand on Eudora's shoulder, "Everything will be fine Eudora, don't worry, the girls will know what to do."

Eudora doesn't look too convinced but they don't have any more time to waste, they're on a schedule. "I hope so," she says in a haughty tone, "I don't need Coriolanus giving me any dirty looks. Now, let's start making our way downstairs so we can leave on time."

No one protests to that. Soarynn says goodbye to Petunia one last time, kissing her head and promising to be back in a few days even though Petunia probably doesn't even care. Soarynn cares and that's more than enough reason to give Petunia a rundown of their itinerary.

They all make their way out of the room and into the hallway, following Eudora like baby ducks in a row. "Can I hold your hand Soarynn?"

She looks down at Celeste who looks nervous about possibly stepping on Soarynn's dress and Soarynn quickly gathers the tulle in her other hand, "Of course, you can darling." They carefully walk down the staircase hand in hand with Ceraphina and Eudora helping to make sure that Soarynn doesn't trip on the remainder of her dress.

They make it down successfully and several of the Avoxes stop to admire Soarynn and her dress. After the wedding, they'll return to the Mansion for the reception dinner and the party so things have been in full swing this week leading up to the big day. Soarynn can't begin to count how many white napkins and plates she's looked at. With Coriolanus still running the country, Soarynn has taken on the brunt of the planning alongside Eudora and she's often worried that it might not be enough, or worse, not live up to his first wedding.

She had even suggested a smaller wedding, a private one without the public but Coriolanus insisted on a public one, a grand wedding so everyone could admire her. "You deserve to have the wedding of your dreams darling," he had told her one night after she confessed her doubts, "and to be quite honest, my wedding with Livia was far from a dream."

He did make a good point, Soarynn only planned on getting married once and she wanted to remember it and enjoy it.

"Alright, this way to the car, Coriolanus and Caspian already left so it's just us ladies," Eudora tells her while they walk down the great hall. They pass the empty space where the painting of the Snows used to be and Soarynn's heart beats a little faster knowing that there will be a painting with her hanging there sooner than later.

Soarynn and Coriolanus had already had several discussions about what to do with the rest of the paintings and photographs of Livia and Soarynn told him to keep them. Livia might not have been the best wife or mother but she was his wife and she was the children's mother. Soarynn could never deny her of that. So to honor her and remember her, they'd keep the photos, move them to a different part of the house where the children could always visit them if they wanted to.

Coriolanus had looked a bit stunned by Soarynn's insistence but after visiting Livia's grave, she was certain in her decision.

For one day, she too would be dead and she could only hope that someone would keep her pictures around.

꧁ ꧂

Soarynn can't hide her amazement as they drive through the crowded Capitol streets. From the moment they pulled out of the gates, their car has been swarmed by people eager to catch a glimpse of Coriolanus Snow's bride. Soarynn starts to feel a little bit nervous as the crowds grow thicker, trying to peer through the tinted windows, "I didn't realize this many people would be out today," she murmurs, holding Celeste's hand a little higher.

Eudora doesn't even seem phased by the number of people in the streets today, knowing her, she probably already planned for this and how many minutes of additional traffic it would add for them. "The Capitol hasn't seen a wedding this grand in a very long time," she tells Soarynn, closing her binder with a relieved sigh, "and your story is quite romantic dear, you're an inspiration to couples everywhere."

Soarynn certainly hadn't planned on inspiring anybody with her love story but she supposes that the Capitol citizens have a mind of their own. The car begins to slow down and the crowds become larger, thicker, louder. They're finally here.

The Building of Justice shines brightly on this cold winter day, a beacon of significance. Those who are a part of the highest elite circles always get married here, even the President. Soarynn knows the building like the back of her hand since she's spent many weeks walking through it, planning out the floral arrangements and color schemes. She hopes everything goes well, goes perfectly.

She spots several news trucks parked along the street and she turns back to Eudora, "Will the media outlets be inside?" She's not opposed to it per se, Soarynn has already come to terms with her new life in the spotlight but she would like to know what to expect before she walks down the aisle.

"They'll be in the very back dear," Eudora tells her, "you won't even see them and Lucky has signed a contract agreeing to keep his excitement contained so no need to worry about any fanatic outbursts." It's a funny thing to take into consideration but Lucky Flickerman can be quite flamboyant and very loud.

Better safe than sorry.

Soarynn nods, watching as they finally pull up to the front steps of the Building of Justice. "Here we go," she whispers, a smile creeping onto her face. A group of Peacekeepers, at least ten, approach the car, ordering people to stand back and leave room. "Any regrets before we go?" Eudora asks, leaning forward to let Soarynn know that this is a safe space.

Soarynn shakes her head, she has some regrets but none regarding marrying into the Snow family, "None at all," she answers before the door opens. They're met with cheers as Eudora steps out first, already barking out orders to the Peacekeepers who look quite shocked at how much noise can come from such a small person. The girls go out next, grinning ear to ear while holding hands. Soarynn watches them wave to the crowd, basking in the attention.

It's her turn now.

She's offered a hand and she takes it, gracefully stepping out onto the sidewalk and the crowd loses it. Cameras flash, people scream, it's complete madness. Everyone's eyes are on Soarynn Nightingale as she rises to her full height, her dress finally revealed, her beauty put on display for all to see. She can see several cameramen recording her, reminding her that this entire ceremony is being viewed by all of Panem.

"The bride has landed."

Soarynn looks at the hand she grabbed and looks up to realize that it's Sejanus Plinth who helped her out, wearing a suit while looking very handsome. "I was hoping I might just sneak in," she jokes, causing them both to laugh. Eudora waves at them to follow her, already halfway up the steps with the girls. Soarynn and Sejanus carefully make their way up the steps and Soarynn does her best to wave to all those who have braved the cold to catch a glimpse of her before she's married.

She sees so many little girls watching with amazement as she glides up the steps and into the Building of Justice, feeling a rush of warmth wash over her once the large doors close behind them.

It's suddenly so quiet again.

Sejanus drops her hand so he can kneel down and talk to the girls who are overjoyed to see one of their favorite people, "Sejanus did you see us?!" He grins, reaching out to brush a curl out from Celeste's face, "I sure did. You both look so lovely in your dresses."

The girls do a few twirls so that he can get the full effect while Eudora runs around the large lobby, getting everything ready. The large wooden doors that lead to the main ceremony room are closed but Soarynn can hear the murmur of the crowd from outside. Several Peacekeepers stand guard throughout the room, making sure no one gets in or out.

"Are you nervous?"

It takes her a second to realize that Sejanus is talking to her and Soarynn shakes her head, "No, I'm simply anxious. I've been thinking about this moment for so long and now it's finally here."

Sejanus hums, admiring her wedding dress in all its glory, "Well you look beautiful Soarynn. Coriolanus is lucky to have you." Soarynn blushes, she's often given compliments on her beauty but they mean a lot more coming from a good friend of hers. "Thank you Sejanus, and thank you for walking me down the aisle."

Without any surviving parents on both sides of their family, Soarynn and Coriolanus didn't know what to do when it came down to having someone walk her down the aisle. At one point he suggested Quintus Heavensbee walking her down the aisle which she kindly declined. She liked Quintus but she'd rather walk by herself if it was that much of a problem.

Then Ceraphina had the bright idea to have Sejanus walk her down the aisle. Both Soarynn and Coriolanus felt that it was a great idea. Soarynn enjoyed Sejanus and Coriolanus felt comfortable trusting Sejanus to take care of his bride.

"Of course," he nods, flashing her a smile, "never thought I'd see the day when he'd be happily married."

Eudora comes over to them with two pink baskets in hand, one for each of their flower girls, "Here you go girls," she hands them the baskets, "now remember, no throwing them at guests." Ceraphina pouts but Eudora gives her a stern look, "Okay," she finally says with a sigh, admiring the white petals, "we will be perfectly behaved."

"Good. You two will go in just a moment."

Eudora runs off to do something else and Soarynn takes it as an opportunity to talk with the girls one last time. She crouches down, her dress pooling around her, "I just wanted to tell you girls that I'm so grateful that our paths crossed. I'm so happy we met and I'm so excited to be a part of your family." Soarynn's eyes mist with tears but she doesn't try to hide them, "I love you so very much, it's been such a privilege to watch you two grow up."

Tears form in their eyes as well and Soarynn holds out her arms for one last hug, a hug that they happily accept. "We love you Soarynn," Ceraphina tells her, "and Daddy does too, and Caspian, and Lenny." Celeste nods to her sister's words, "Mhm, and Eudora too. You fit right in with our family."

Soarynn laughs, glad that they see it that way, "Well I'm very lucky to be part of a family such as this one. I can't wait to wake up knowing that I have three perfect children." Soarynn and Coriolanus had explained the logistics of custody as well as they possibly could to the girls who simply concluded that once they kissed at the altar, they'd have a new mother and that was more than enough for them.

"Alright girls, it's time to go!" Eudora calls from the doors. Soarynn hugs the girls one last time before they go, "I'll see you in there," she whispers, smoothing down their hair once more before they run over to Eudora, bouncing on their toes.

Eudora stares down at her wristwatch, counting down the seconds before she finally nods at the Peacekeepers to open the doors and let the girls in. Soarynn hears lots of adoring gasps when the girls walk into the ceremony room before the doors close again. "I hope they remember to go left," she mutters, getting a questionable look from Sejanus who wasn't there to witness their confusion earlier.

"Have you...have you seen Coriolanus?" She asks casually, standing back up to her full height as she fluffs out her dress. Sejanus chuckles at her attempt to act casual, "I did," he confirms, "he looks very handsome by the way," he adds, making Soarnyn blush, "and he's very eager to see you."

They usually spend all day apart but for some reason, today feels like torture. Probably because they're moments away from tying the knot. From becoming a united front until death does them part.

Minutes of silence pass between them but Soarynn cherishes it, she's been surrounded by noise and chaos all of this morning. A few seconds of silence can be such a precious gift.

Eudora keeps glancing down at her watch, checking her binder, and then checking her watch again. Hopefully, she takes a long vacation after this.

"Alright dear," she calls, waving Soarynn and Sejanus over, "it's time."

Soarynn's heart feels as though it could beat out of her chest from the excitement. Sejanus offers up his arm to her and she gladly takes it, "Are you ready?"

"Ready as I'll ever be," she murmurs.

They wait outside the doors, trying to listen to what's going on inside of the ceremony room and then they hear the music start up. "You really are the most beautiful bride," Eudora tells Soarynn, brushing a piece of hair out from her face before giving her the bouquet of white roses, "your father would be very proud of you dear."

Soarynn didn't think she'd cry this early into her wedding day but Eudora might just bring her to tears. Soarynn carefully hugs the older woman, not wanting to ruin any of the Prep's hard work, "Thank you Eudora, for everything."

She catches a glimmer of tears in Eudora's eyes before she blinks them away and nods, "Of course dear. Enjoy yourself today alright?"

Soarynn hopes she will but knowing how these things go, she'll be pulled left and right to talk to all her guests, barely given any time with Coriolanus.

"You ladies are getting me all teary-eyed," Sejanus jokes, wiping at his own eyes. They all laugh, Sejanus has never been afraid to wear his heart on his sleeve and it's always been something for Soarynn to admire about him. There's just something about someone being unapologetic about being themselves.

Eudora looks at her watch one last time, "Here we go. Five, four, three, two, one, go!"

The doors open, revealing the massive ceremony room, perfectly decorated. The drapery Soarynn picked out months ago hangs down from the ceiling, the flowers she selected weeks ago brighten up the room. Everything worked out in the end and the room screams elegance and wealth, the very message that the Snows like to put out into the world.

All the guests are already standing, all eyes on the bride as she makes her way down the aisle and Soarynn can hear murmurs of admiration for her dress and her beauty.

But her focus is fixed on the man at the altar.

Coriolanus looks tremendously handsome in his black suit, a white rose pinned to his lapel. His curls look perfect, not too unruly but not too slicked back. Just the way she likes them. He exudes wealth and power by simply just standing there and she so desperately wants to be his entirely.

His piercing blue eyes stay locked on her the entire way and Soarynn fights the urge to run down the long aisle to be with him sooner.

As they get closer to the altar, Soarynn can see more clearly how proud Coriolanus looks, how pleased and enamored he looks by just seeing her. He's asked about her dress one hundred times since her first fitting but she's refused to give him any details. But the look on his face has made it all worth it.

They finally reach the steps leading up to the altar and there's nothing keeping them apart now. Soarynn gives Sejanus a warm smile, "Thank you Sejanus," she whispers, giving him a kiss on the cheek before handing him her bouquet. Sejanus smiles back at her, nodding and patting her arm, "I wish you two the best."

Soarynn turns to look back up at her fiance, buzzing with excitement now that this moment has finally arrived. Coriolanus holds his hand out to her and she takes it in an instant, his large fingers curl around her smaller ones as she climbs the steps.

They're both all smiles as they finally come face to face with one another after hours of being apart. It's as if no one else is even in the room with them right now. Soarynn looks up at him with nothing but love and commitment, pleased to know that the man standing across from her would lay the world down at her feet if she asked him to do so.

Coriolanus speaks volumes with his eyes which are usually stern and guarded. He looks utterly in love with her, vexed by her beauty and her dedication to him and his family.

She only glances down at the front row once to look at the children who are all watching with excitement as if watching the horse races. The girls give her a wave and Caspian holds Lenny a little tighter with one hand while holding Eudora's hand with the other.

While neither Soarynn nor Coriolanus have parents anymore, seeing the children is all she needs to feel supported. She's about to have a family, a real, genuine family and she can't thank Coriolanus enough for giving that to her.

The officant begins the very long traditional ceremony which includes reading from several different books and passages. Soarynn had expected it though, the stiffness of a high society wedding. It would be a great sign of disrespect if they didn't partake in tradition, even if it is quite tedious and at sometimes, quite boring.

Soarynn had worried that the children might grow bored or get antsy after a while but she can see from the corner of her eye that they seem more than content watching Soarynn and Coriolanus.

Through the whole thing her eyes remain on the man she cares for the most and his eyes meet hers with matched passion and love. They only have eyes for each other today.

The rings are then brought forward, a simple gold band for Coriolanus, masculine and broad, just like him. And another ring inlaid with diamonds for Soarynn, shaped like vines around a rose to surround the large diamond already on her finger.

Finally, they get to the vows.

Being a woman, Soarynn will be the first one to say her vows, to promise herself to her future husband which will give Coriolanus one last chance to change his mind. It's a terrifying thought to know that he could call it all off and leave with his children, leaving her alone. She'd be lying if she said that she hadn't had a few nightmares about that leading up to this special day.

"Soarynn Nightingale, by agreeing to these vows, you will forever bind yourself to this man. You will promise to love him throughout all your trials and tribulations, to bear the children he gifts upon you, and to support the family created between the two of you. You shall stand by his side as a pillar of strength, dedication, and support as he leads your family through life. Do you, Soarynn Nightingale, vow to uphold these vows, and take Coriolanus Snow to be your lawfully wedded husband?"

Her eyes shine with tears as she answers with a determined tone, the same way she answered Coriolanus when he asked her to marry him, "I do."

"We now turn to the groom. Coriolanus Snow, by agreeing to these vows, you will forever bind yourself to this woman. You will promise to love her throughout all your trials and tribulations, to stand by her as she bears the children you gift upon her, and to lead the family created by the two of you. You shall stand by her side as a pillar of protection, security, and leadership as she walks with you and your family through life. Do you, Coriolanus Snow, take Soarynn Nightingale to be your lawfully wedded wife?"

Coriolanus doesn't let a second pass before answering with the same determined tone Soarynn used, "I do."

Soarynn swears she can hear the girls let out a quiet sigh of relief, goodness knows how they'd react if he didn't take her to be his bride. He'd have a war on his hands.

"Then by the power invested in me, by the great nation of Panem, I now pronounce you husband and wife. Coriolanus, you may kiss your bride."

Soarynn breaks into the largest smile she's ever worn as Coriolanus cups her face with his hands and captures her lips in their first kiss as husband and wife for all to bear witness to. A loud applause roars through the room as the President of Panem kisses the country's new First Lady.

Soarynn rests her hand on his chest when he deepens the kiss, not even shying away from the very public display of affection. She can hear the girls cheering-screaming-as their parents kiss for the first time and she feels Coriolanus grin into the kiss. When he finally pulls away she looks up into his eyes, bright and sparkling, "I hope you know how very proud I am to call you my wife Mrs. Snow," he tells her, softly so only she can hear.

Soarynn is beaming in his hold, "And I am so very proud to be yours Mr. Snow," she replies, earning her another smile from Coriolanus who slips one hand down her back to kiss her again, this time dipping her down for the fun of it which earns them quite a few whistles but Soarynn doesn't even care. She laughs into the kiss while knowing that she'll be forever safe in his arms, a Snow, loved and guarded until the day she dies.

They finally pull away and face the crowd, now man and wife. Soarynn smiles brightly while she waves at the crowd of friends and Capitolites, all people who can proudly say that they witnessed the wedding of a lifetime. She spots Lucky in the very back of the room, talking animatedly to the camera while pointing at the newlyweds.

Soarynn can't help but laugh, it all feels like a wonderful dream come true.

Their name is announced to the country for the first time, Coriolanus and Soarynn Snow has never sounded better.

They begin to make their way down the steps to walk down the aisle, a slow process to ensure no damage befalls the dress and they're immediately met with cheers from the girls who can't seem to sit still for one more second, jumping up and down while they wave at their parents.

Soarynn makes sure to give them a big wave, blowing a kiss to Caspian who sits comfortably on Eudora's hip while she lifts his little hand to wave at them.

Sejanus steps forward to hand Soarynn her bouquet of roses once more, giving Coriolanus a friendly pat on the shoulder to congratulate his good friend.

Walking down the aisle hand-in-hand with her husband feels like the most natural thing in the world for Soarynn.

She's a Snow now, something that she'll never take for granted for being gifted a last name such as this one is something no one should ever neglect.

꧁ ꧂

Everything is a blur after they walk down the aisle.

They were promptly escorted to their car where they were given an even louder round of applause from all the onlookers who had gathered outside the Building of Justice. Soarynn hadn't known that she was so important to Panem but being tied to Coriolanus meant that she was now the second most important person in the country.

The drive home was shorter than she expected but it massively had to do with the fact that most of the streets had been barricaded and cleared for the wedding procession. And Coriolanus barely gave her a moment to think about anything else but his lips on her neck while he tried to distract her from thinking about anything else but him.

Soarynn did her best to keep him at arm's length since they still had a very long day ahead of them and she could not afford to have a hair out of place, let alone a bruise on her neck.

It's rather strange to walk back into the President's Mansion knowing that it's now Soarynn's official home. Coriolanus has already promised her free reign to design and decorate the house as she pleases.

"Just five minutes," Coriolanus whispers in her ear while wrapping an arm around her waist, "just five minutes alone in my study and then we can go take pictures." Soarynn giggles when his fingers brush against her skin, so persistent, "Behave," she reminds him, "we have to stick to Eudora's schedule."

Eudora has planned this entire day down to the last minute and right now, the Mansion is empty which gives them time to take professional photos before the guests start to arrive. She might have a stroke if she found Coriolanus and Soarynn kissing instead of kissing for the cameras.

Coriolanus groans and holds her waist with both hands, forcing her to stop and look up at him, "My darling," her heart skips a beat from his deep voice, "it's going to be impossible for me to keep my hands off of you today. You look exquisite, you look stunning, perfect really. Five minutes is nothing compared to what's waiting for you tonight."

Another giggle escapes Soarynn's lips although this one is more nervous than anything, losing her virginity is a daunting yet exciting proposition, one she herself can not wait for. But they'll have to wait, they can't just sneak off and expect no one to question their whereabouts.

"Then the buildup will make tonight even more pleasurable," she purrs, straightening the lapels on his suit, "and you do look very handsome Coryo, very Presidential." He smirks and leans in for a kiss, biting her bottom lip just to tease her before Soarynn pulls away, "Photos," she reminds him. Coriolanus sighs, almost moping at the idea of having his photograph taken, "Fine, let's go act like we're in love."

Soarynn chuckles, leading them down the great hall towards the ballroom where they'll start with photos and then go outside, "We've been managing so far haven't we?" His hand finds the small of her back, resting there in a protective manner, something he's fond of doing, "I suppose we have. Even the children are fooled." Soarynn smiles at the thought of seeing the children again. They'll come at the end of the photographs, giving them a chance to take their first-ever family photos.

An exciting thought to Soarynn who is now a mother to three.

"I can't to see them," she admits, leaning into his touch, "they were so well behaved at the ceremony." Coriolanus lets out a grunt of agreement, "They were perfect today. Now we just have to get through dinner."

Soarynn's stomach grumbles at the mention of dinner, she really hasn't eaten anything since breakfast.

Once they reach the ballroom, they're greeted by congratulations and instructions on where to stand and how to pose. It's all a bit awkward to Soarynn who has never really done this before. They take lots of candid photos of her and Coriolanus dancing, kissing, and smiling at one another. To his credit, Coriolanus does his best to make her feel comfortable and at ease, causing her to forget about the millions of photos being taken every second that passes.

"This really is a beautiful dress," he tells her while spinning her around. Soarynn nods in agreement, she feels like a princess, "Tigris truly outdid herself," she says, feeling the soft fabric, "I was worried that it wouldn't be suited to your taste."

Coriolanus shakes his head at her worries, "My taste doesn't matter darling, the dress is beautiful and you are even more beautiful. It's a very flattering design on you."

He has such a way with words.

They take a few more pictures inside before moving outside to the colder weather, "Tigris didn't make you some temporary sleeves?" He teases when Soarynn rubs her arms for warmth. She shoots him a glare, not a fan of his silly little jokes, "Ha, ha. It's not her fault that the Snows insist on getting married in the cold of winter."

Coriolanus helps gather the majority of the dress so that they can safely walk down the steps leading to the Mansion's grounds, "It's a family tradition darling. And it gives me an excuse to wrap my arms around you." He does make a good point.

They take lots more pictures outside, some of them together, and some of them separately. Soarynn can hear lots of excited chatter and she looks up the steps to see the children have finally arrived, along with Eudora and the Preps who almost fall down the steps to rush to her aid when the wind blows her hair out of place.

"Help is on the way sweetie!" Imogen shouts, nearly twisting an ankle in her heels, "Don't fret!"

Coriolanus gives Soarynn an amused smile once she's surrounded by the four women dedicated to making sure she looks perfect today, "Oh you looked so gorgeous," Jadis tells her, fluffing out the train of the dress, "everyone loved the dress." Soarynn sets her hands on her hips while they fuss over her, still aware of the camera capturing her every move, "Thank you, ladies, your efforts didn't go unnoticed today." They all wave her off, insisting that it's a privilege to look after the First Lady of Panem.

Lavender eyes Coriolanus while he talks with the children who clearly have a lot to say about the wedding, "And may I just say, you snagged quite the good-looking man. Tall and good with children? He's a dream come true."

Soarynn laughs at her compliment, "Thank you, I do consider myself very lucky to be his wife."

After a few more minor touch-ups, the Preps declare that Soarynn is once again, "camera ready" and Coriolanus walks over to her with the children. The girls throw all etiquette out the window and run to Soarynn, smiles on their faces, curls bouncing, "We're back! We're back, did you miss us?"

Soarynn bends down once they reach her, holding their sweet faces in her hands, "I missed you so very much my darlings," she tells them, finding no lies in her words, "you were so wonderfully behaved today."

The girls bask in Soarynn's attention and compliment her dress once again, telling her that she's the prettiest princess in the entire world. Caspian uses fewer words to express his feelings about Soarynn's dress but he does reach out to touch it, "Pretty dress Momma," he says, feeling the tulle between his fingers. Soarynn grins and presses a kiss to his cheek, "Thank you, my sweet boy. You look so handsome in your suit, just like your father hmm?"

Coriolanus looks pleased with the comparison, he truly did gift Caspian all of his looks, making them nearly identical, "He'll be quite the ladies man when he gets older." Ceraphina scrunches her nose, "What's a 'ladies man' mean Daddy?"

Coriolanus clears his throat whole trying to come up with a sufficient, age-appropriate answer and Soarynn only gives him a knowing look, "Go on darling, tell the girls what you meant," she says, resting a hand on his arm.

"I'll tell you after dinner," he smoothly answers while pointing at the cameras, "right now we need to take some more photos."

Soaeynn chuckles at his attempts to divert the children's attention but it's successful once Eudora starts shouting at them to smile. Family photos can only last for so long until someone gets their feelings hurt or gets tired of smiling and in this case, it's Celeste who nearly starts crying when Ceraphina gets to take some photos with Coriolanus before she does.

"She always goes first," she cries with the stomp of her little foot. Soarynn ever so carefully crouches down until she's at eye-level with her youngest daughter, wiping away the single tear on Celeste's face, "Darling, he doesn't love you any less because you didn't get to go first. Your father doesn't have favorites, I've told you this before, he loves you all so very much."

Celesye sniffles, watching Coriolanus throw Ceraphian into the air while she shrieks with laughter, "Then why does she always get to go first?" Soarynn sighs, she wishes she had a good answer besides the obvious fact that Ceraphina is the oldest and people tend to do things in order.

"You know," Soarynn says quietly, leaning in as if sharing a big secret, "sometimes they save the best for last." Celeste gasps at her words, her blue eyes widening in amazement, "Really?"

Soarynn nods, crisis averted, "But don't tell anyone okay? This is our big secret." Soarynn holds out her pinky and Celeste does the same with her smaller pinky, locking them together in a sacred pinky promise, "Okay Mommy, I won't tell anyone." Soarynn feels her lips stretch into a big smile at Celeste not calling her by her first name, "Okay good. I knew I could count on you, darling."

A moment later Ceraphina comes skipping over to them, telling Celeste that it's now her turn with her father. "Are you having fun?" She asks Soarynn, folding her hands behind her back like the little Capitol lady she's been raised to be. Soarynn nods, so far she's had no complaints other than her feet are starting to hurt in these heels, "I am having fun, are you having fun?"

"Yep! Daddy says we can have dinner soon and then go dancing and then have cake!"

"You're very excited about the cake aren't you?"

Ceraphina's eyes twinkle with excitement, "Cake is so good! And we can have as much as we want, right?"

"Yes you can," Soarynn confirms, "as long as you don't make yourselves sick." Should the children eat too much and get a stomach ache, Soarynn won't even be here to deal with it. She'll be on her honeymoon which is a strange thought. She's grown so attached to the children, to her children and their daily routines. To step out of what she considers normal feels foreign to her.

"We won't," Ceraphina promises with a giggle, "oh look, it's time to go back inside." Soarynn looks back over at the small army of people they've procured over the past hour and sees Eudora waving at everyone to make their way back into the Mansion, "It's time to eat," she calls, "we can't afford to run behind schedule."

Celeste runs back over to Soarynn, her curls bouncing so much that her hairbow almost falls out, "C'mon Mommy!" She reaches her hand out for Soarynn and Soarynn has to actively contain her smile when she takes Celeste's small hand. "I'm coming," she tells her, making sure that Caspian isn't left behind but he's being quite independent right now, walking by himself, batting away any hands that are offered to him.

Coriolanus joins them, taking Ceraphina's hand as they climb up all the steps and Caspian does, eventually, ask to be carried. "The children will come with me so you two can make a separate entrance," Eudora explains, "we'll make sure all the guests are seated, make a toast," she nods at Coriolanus, "then the food will be served."

"When's the cake gonna come out?" Ceraphina asks, the rest of Eudora's plans going in one ear and out the other which nearly sends Eudora into a spiral. "After we dance sweetheart," Soarynn quickly answers, saving Ceraphina from getting a short lecture about listening to adults. Eudora's eye twitches but there's no time to waste, "Right, now come along children, time to find our seats."

The girls follow Eudora without question but Caspian seems more reluctant once he's set back down on his own two feet, "Momma come," he says, tugging on Soarynn's dress. She gives him a sad smile, "I'll be right behind you sweet boy, I promise. Go follow your sisters so we can see each other sooner."

Perhaps it's because he has Lenny in his other hand and his lion always manages to offer him some strength but Caspian reluctantly follows his sisters back into the ballroom, the Preps right after him, leaving Soarynn and Coriolanus alone once again.

Coriolanus wastes no time in wrapping an arm around Soarynn, pulling her against him and pressing a kiss to her cheek, "Have I told you how radiant you look today darling? The sun might as well stop shining since we have you around to light up the room."

Soarynn giggles at his shameless flirting, he's always been so charming, so effortless in knowing what to say. She rests her hands on his chest, feeling the rich fabric of his suit between her fingers, "You're really buttering me up aren't you Coryo?" He doesn't even seem ashamed and he pulls her in a little closer until only a few inches stand between their faces, "Well I already know for a fact that you taste delicious," he says quietly, his piercing blue eyes reflecting a deep desire that she's not entirely familiar with yet.

Soarynn feels her entire face turning pink with embarrassment, how can he say such things with so much confidence?

Coriolanus only chuckles when he sees her face and presses a soft, sweet kiss to her lips, a kiss that's patient and not at all lustful. Soarynn sighs into the kiss, giving into her husband's needs wholeheartedly. After all, she did vow to always be there for him no matter what.

When they pull away, she's breathless and it's not from the cold, "Celeste called me 'Mommy' a moment ago," she whispers, her lips stretching into a big smile unable to contain her excitement, "I didn't think the children would start so soon."

Coriolanus wears a proud expression on his face and kisses her forehead before loosening his grip on her waist, allowing for more distance to be put between them. "Well, Caspian has thought of you as his mother since the day you walked through the front door so I'm not surprised at all. Ceraphina will warm up to it once she hears her siblings using it, she remembers the most out of all of them."

Soarynn nods, he's right, of course, she does. Ceraphina is the oldest and therefore spent the most time with Livia before she passed, even if those moments weren't happy ones, she still remembers her mother.

It’s just such an exciting sign of progress for the children who have been forced to deal with grief at such a young age. Soarynn could barely pull herself together when her own father passed away and she was well into young adulthood. She supposes that it’s simply the life one must live when their father is the President of Panem, faced with challenges most children could never imagine.

But they've done exceedingly well so far in her opinion, never acting out in public, only getting into silly, minor arguments. They're angels really.

Angels that are now her angels and Soarynn will never take that for granted.

| Part 12. |

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{ Part 13. )

| tag list: @thevoicesinmyprettylittlehead @strawberriicakes @wonderlandbound111 @villiansarehottest @iswearicanfixhim @melodyoflovee |

[slaymitchabernathy]

A Snowflake

“Do you think I look fat?”

Coriolanus freezes at his wife’s question. Surely this is some trick, some ploy to start up a pointless argument. There really should be lessons taught to husbands of expecting wives about these things because he’s been navigating the past seven months clueless as can be.

He glances up from the newspaper at his wife, dressed merely in her underwear while standing in front of their dresser, looking at herself in the mirror’s reflection.

Her hands rest on her protruding stomach, swollen with their first child, a baby girl.

Coriolanus feels pride in knowing that he not only managed to marry a woman as beautiful as Soarynn, but also managed to get her pregnant. She’s absolutely glowing with this pregnancy and he’s heard nothing but praise about how she’s been going about it.

And yes, in public she’s the sweet, graceful Soarynn Snow everyone knows her to be. But at home she’s sometimes a little…emotional.

He’s learned to choose his words very carefully the past few months since most sentences can lead to tears. He knows it’s just the hormones, that she’ll be back to her normally sensitive self once she gives birth but still, he’s been walking on eggshells.

“Of course not, darling,” he smoothly answers, and he’s telling the truth. Soarynn is a rather slender woman, and yes, she’s put on a few pounds during this pregnancy, but in all the right places in his opinion.

Her breasts have grown in size and her ass, well, he’s been enjoying these developments very much. Turns out pregnancy is a blessing.

But Soarynn is still looking at herself, with a frown on her lips now. Coriolanus sighs, he knows his wife isn’t vain or self obsessed but all his friends warned him about this stage of pregnancy. The stage in which women tend to obsess over every little thing about their appearance, comparing their current bodies to the ones they had before becoming pregnant.

Not that he can blame her, he’d do the same thing if he were in her position. Coriolanus prides himself in his toned physique, working out regularly to ensure that Soarynn has a fit and attractive husband at all times.

But this pregnancy has only made her more beautiful in his eyes, she’s gotten softer, prettier, brighter. She’s simply glowing.

He rises from his seat once he realizes that a few kind words will not be enough to soothe his wife’s insecurities.

He comes up behind her and rests his hands on top of hers, admiring how they look in the mirror. They make quite the attractive couple in his opinion and if they’re lucky, their baby girl will look just like Soarynn.

He can picture her now, wavy blonde hair, blue eyes with a hint of gray in them, freckles too. She’ll have him wrapped around her little finger in no time if she’s anything like Soarynn.

“My love,” he says softly, kissing behind her ear, “you look beautiful, believe me you do. There’s not a day where you haven’t looked beautiful, pregnant or not but to see you carrying my child makes you even more beautiful.”

Soarynn leans into his touch, fully trusting him with her care and his heart beats a little faster knowing that very soon, he’ll be taking care of two people.

His girls.

“I just,” she bites her lip, “I don’t ever want to disappoint you and I worry that I may not look the same once I give birth. I’ve heard stories of women experiencing tearing during birth and…”

He can see that his wife has fallen victim to horror stories of birth. He’d by lying if he said he hasn’t as well but for different reasons.

Coriolanus remembers his own mother’s death all too well. Too much blood, not enough time. His little sister he never got to meet and his mother he never got to say goodbye too.

No, that won’t be happening to Soarynn, he’ll make sure of that.

He holds her a little tighter though, just to be safe, “You won’t tear,” he promises, “and I love you Soarynn, no matter what your body looks like. If you think I’ll be put off by a stretch mark then you clearly don’t realize how I can’t get enough of you darling. I’d take you every day if I could.”

To prove his point he kisses down her neck, making her giggle which has to be his favorite thing to hear, “You already do,” she laughs, squirming in his hold.

She’s right, he makes love to her about every day just for the sake of reminding her how much he adores her. Soarynn is like a goddess with her swollen stomach, lying on their bed. It’s hard not to make love to her when she looks like this.

He chuckles and gives her one more kiss before pulling away, “See? You’re beautiful and you’re not fat, you’re growing a tiny human being inside of you darling, you shouldn’t be concerned with such things.”

Soarynn sighs, looking at their reflection with his hands resting on top of hers. “Our little snowflake,” she softly says and he raises an eyebrow. “Snowflake?” He repeats and Soarynn smiles up at him, nodding, “Mhm. Get it? Because she’s tiny and we’re the Snows? A snowflake!”

Coriolanus kisses the top of her head, amused by how cute she is. “You’re terribly clever darling,” he tells her, “but it’s a good thing we already picked out a name hmm?”

They chose the name of their baby girl once they found out the gender. Mostly because Soarynn wanted to get her as many personally monogrammed items as possible. Pillows, blankets, stuffed animals, clothes, whatever she could get her hands on.

Coriolanus didn’t even bother with trying to stop her. Not when she was so excited. The nursery was already done, with soft pink walls and a beautiful crib.

“Our Ceraphina,” Soarynn says dreamily.

Coriolanus smiles, “Our little snowflake.”

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[slaymitchabernathy]

The Nanny

"Mommy, when're we gonna go to the party?"

Soarynn dabs some more powder onto her face, she can't afford to look bad tonight, "Soon sweetheart."

"Mommy, what're you wearing to the party?"

Soarynn sets her powder compact down, silver with a rose engraved onto the lid, "I'm wearing a red dress sweetheart to match your father."

"Mommy, why're we having this party?"

Soarynn pauses in her makeup routine, trying to come up with a suitable answer for Ceraphina who's seen very little of the Hunger Games so far, "We're having this party to celebrate the Victor of the Hunger Games," she explains, watching Ceraphina through the mirror's reflection, "he's coming off of a very long tour from the Districts."

Every year after the Hunger Games end and a new Victor is crowned by Coriolanus, the Victor returns home to their District where they bathe in their newfound riches and move into a beautiful house provided by the Capitol. A few months later, they embark on a Victory Tour through all Twelve Districts, paying their respects to the fallen Tributes while giving inspiring speeches about the Capitol's generosity.

This year's Victor, Beckett, has just finished his Victor Tour and arrived in the Capitol this morning for the last stop in his Tour, the President's Mansion where a huge party is being thrown for him. Having the party at the Mansion serves many purposes. It allows the public to witness the grandeur of the President's riches while also allowing them to see the Victor up close and personal. Drinks will flow and music will play and no one will remember it after five days but the Snows are required to attend as tradition demands.

The girls have been chattering about the party since Soarynn and Coriolanus got back from their honeymoon but Soarynn hasn't been able to share their enthusiasm. Not when she still remembers the last time she was around people from one of the Districts. But she can't miss the party unless she's terribly ill which she is not.

There are worse things to be forced to do but Soarynn still feels strange about the entire thing. Beckett is still a child and yet she's seen grown women lusting over him. It's a life she wouldn't wish on any child, District or not.

"Will there be cake?"

Soarynn nods, grabbing her vanilla-scented perfume, "Yes darling, there will be lots of cake and other desserts tonight." Soarynn is thankful that tonight doesn't require a sit-down dinner. There will be lots of tables with different types of foods for people to try while they mingle.

"Mommy?"

"Yes, darling?"

"I love you."

Soarynn's lips curl up into a smile and she turns around on her vanity stool to face her eldest daughter who's been so sweet since she got back from her honeymoon, "I love you," she tells Ceraphina, holding out her arms for a hug. Ceraphina doesn't make her wait, leaping into her arms and giggling when Soarynn peppers her face with kisses, "Oh, I'm so lucky to have you," Soarynn tells her. She means it too, she's so very blessed to have three beautiful children in her life.

If only she could have another.

It's been one week since Soarynn got married to Coriolanus Snow and she's still not pregnant. Not that she expected it to happen just like that but they've had sex every single night since their wedding, sometimes in the morning as well and nothing has come of it. And it's not like Coriolanus is finishing anywhere but inside of her.

Soarynn pulls away from the hug when she feels Ceraphina doing the same and she rests her hand on her stomach, wishing for it to swell with a child, "Are you feeling sick Mommy?" Soarynn quickly shakes her head, knowing how scared the children get when either of their parents doesn't feel well. After Livia succumbed to a sudden illness, a simple cough can send them into a terrorized state.

"I'm perfectly fine darling," she assures her, "now why don't you go put on your shoes hmm? We laid them out this morning remember?" Ceraphina nods and runs out of the bathroom with the promise to put her shoes on by herself since she's so grown up now.

Soarynn still can't shake the disappointment of not being pregnant yet and mix that with having to mingle with everyone in the Capitol tonight and she just might be sick by midnight. But she doesn't have time to pity herself, not when she hears her husband enter their bedroom, his loud voice booming throughout the large room. Soarynn only catches the last half of his conversation but it sounds like an important one.

"...need to reel them in before things get out of hand Quintus. With the election coming up I can't afford any shortcomings."

Soarynn checks her appearance one more time in the vanity mirror, pleased with what she sees staring back at her. She went with her natural, everyday makeup look, but added a bit of eyeliner and red lipstick to match her red dress. Speaking of her dress, she needs to put it on before they start running late.

Just as she's about to stand up, Coriolanus walks in and his gaze immediately lands on her, dressed only in her robe and slippers, "Don't come in Quintus," he says, closing the bathroom doors behind him. Soarynn offers him a sweet smile even though she can tell he's stressed. Petunia who was lounging on the edge of the tub hops onto the floor and pads over to Coriolanus, purring up a storm while rubbing her body against her leg.

Coriolanus pays her no mind and treads into their closet and Soarynn follows right behind him. She can hear him mumbling to himself, physically in their closet, mentally still in his study. Soarynn takes her dress off the hanger, admiring the silky fabric that Tigris pulled together for her tonight. It has two thin straps holding it up and a slit that goes up her right leg, sure to drive Coriolanus mad tonight.

Soarynn slides her robe off her slender figure and carefully steps into her dress, pulling it over her hips and then slipping her arms through the straps. She's almost fully got it on but she needs help with tying it in the back.

She looks over her shoulder at Coriolanus who's also getting dressed, putting on his shoes while wearing a scowl. "Coryo?"

He doesn't seem to hear her through his own troubling thoughts so she tries again, louder this time, "Coryo?"

He looks up at her, his eyes slightly widen when he drinks in the sight of her and what she's wearing tonight, "Yes, my love?"

"Could you please help me with the back? It needs to be tied," she tells him, turning around to show him where the issue lies. Coriolanus nods, swallowing down the small lump in his throat while rising from the bench to help her. Soarynn pulls her hair over her shoulder while his large hands pull at the strings, ensuring that she doesn't flash anyone tonight, "Is this alright?" He asks, his voice husky and his lips very close to her ear. Soarynn shivers, "Perfect," she whispers, letting her hair fall back down over her back, "thank you for helping me."

She turns around to admire the suit he's wearing tonight, a deep red, perfectly matching her dress. He looks so sharp and handsome like the imposing President of Panem people know him to be. She straightens out his tie and pulls his collar down, "You look very handsome Coryo."

Coriolanus sighs and rests a hand on her back, pulling her against him, "I don't feel very handsome right now." Soarynn's lips tug down into a frown and she furrows her brows, "Why not? What's wrong?"

Coriolanus shakes his head, pressing a fake smile to his lips, "Nothing to concern yourself with darling." He kisses her forehead before she can protest and turns on his heel, "I'll see you shortly alright?" Soarynn can only nod, watching as her husband walks out of their closet, leaving her more worried and confused than she was before he came in.

Petunia strolls in, not at all affected by the humans around her or their wild emotions. She hops onto the table in the center of their closet and does a big stretch while watching Soarynn, "It must be nice to be a cat," Soarynn muses, scratching behind her ears. Petunia meows in reply, "Mommy, we're ready!"

The children's voices draw Soarynn from her clouded bubble and she shakes herself out of it, "I'll see you later Petunia."

꧁ ꧂

The Victory Party is a great success.

People are laughing, drinks are flowing, food is being eaten and Soarynn is miserable.

She fakes it very well to her credit, never letting her society smile fall as people compliment her on the party and her recent wedding. "Truly, we've never seen such a stunning bride," one woman says while sipping on a purple-colored beverage.

Caspian reaches out to touch the feathers on the woman's shoulder pads and Soarynn quickly pulls his hand down, "Thank you so much, the support we've received has been overwhelming." It's not a lie, Coriolanus and Soarynn Snow's wedding has been all there is to talk about. Every billboard, every magazine, and newsoutlet has been discussing it and giving out their opinions about the ceremony.

From the guest list to the tablecloths, everyone has an opinion.

"Such a shame you couldn't away for a more dreamy honeymoon," the woman sighs, "I heard District Four has a beautiful resort this time of year, have you been?" Soarynn feigns excitement and nods, "Yes we have. We didn't want to be too far from the children though," she easily lies, trying to forget what happened in Four.

The woman nods and doesn't push it any further which Soarynn appreciates, they discuss more light-hearted topics until the woman's drunk husband stumbles into one of the soup tables and she has to go rescue him.

Soarynn bounces Caspian up and down on her hip, he was doing just fine walking by himself but he suddenly got overwhelmed and asked to be held. Soarynn could hardly decline him, not when she herself was also feeling very overwhelmed. The girls had gone off with Coriolanus to get some cake a while ago but with a party like this, Soarynn knows they've been caught up talking with some of the guests.

She takes this moment to catch her breath, scanning the ballroom for a familiar face. It's hard to spot anyone with how dark the ballroom is for tonight's festivities. The lights have been dimmed, with only small lamps providing illumination. Sofas are scattered throughout the room while servers walk around with platters of food and drinks. There are musicians floating on what must be clouds above them and Soarynn doesn't even want to know how they're doing that.

Soarynn locks eyes with the one person she so desperately wishes to avoid so of course he gives her a smile. Soarynn returns it out of necessity but panics when Beckett starts towards her. When he gets within three feet of her, Grant steps out from the shadows, acting as a buffer between them and Soarynn is suddenly so very grateful for Grant who rarely ever steps in. He lets her handle things and she appreciates it more than he'll ever know.

"Just wanted to say hello," Beckett says, nodding towards Grant who doesn't budge, "I already spoke with your husband."

Soarynn pretends to be enamored by his words and nods, "Oh, I'm so glad you did. He can be rather hard to pin down." She would know, where the hell is he?

Beckett hums and his eyes drift to Caspian who's watching Beckett curiously, "What's his name?"

Soarynn doesn't really know how this boy has managed to go this far in life without knowing the names of the President's children but she pushes all judgment aside for the sake of polite conversation, "Caspian."

Beckett seems thoroughly amused by her answer, "Ah, so they're all the same then? Ceraphina, Celeste and now Caspian, I wouldn't expect any less from President Snow."

Caspian curls into Soarynn, resting his head on her chest, "Momma go to bed," he mumbles. Caspian is her saving grace tonight. "I think I ought to put him to bed," she tells Beckett, "but it was lovely meeting you, we hope you enjoy the party."

Soarynn goes to step to the left but Beckett follows her, "I saw your wedding," he says, a strange look in his eyes, "I've never seen a more beautiful bride." Soarynn has been complimented on her beauty countless times but it feels very different coming from Beckett, "That's very kind, thank you."

Beckett's eyes rove over her body and Soarynn is beginning to regret wearing a dress with such a high slit, it seemed like a great idea two hours ago. "Do you dance?"

Soarynn is taken aback by his question since to her knowledge, no one in the Districts is familiar with the waltz, "I do," she answers, "but not tonight, I really should get Caspian to bed."

Beckett scoffs a laugh, "Just hand him off to your bodyguard," he juts his chin towards Grant who hasn't taken his eyes off of Beckett, "he'll be fine. I want to go home being able to say that I had my hands on the new First Lady."

Before Soarynn can even formulate a response to his very rude and suggestive comment, she feels a large hand come to rest on the small of her back and the scent of roses overwhelms her, "I'm afraid you'll be returning home without such an accomplishment," Coriolanus tells Beckett, looming over all of them in an imposing manner.

Beckett clears his throat, caught in his scheme, "I meant no offense."

Coriolanus laughs, a fake laugh that Soarynn sees right through, "Of course you didn't. Now run along and enjoy your party."

Beckett scurries off into the crowd and Soarynn lets out a sigh of relief, "The fucking nerve of him," Coriolanus mutters, turning Soarynn around to face him, "are you alright darling? He didn't touch you did he?" He reaches to cup her face and she melts into his touch, "No," she assures him, "Grant made sure of that, but he was awfully persistent."

She can see a million emotions flooding through her husband's eyes but the most prominent one is anger. Anger due to someone making her uncomfortable and trying to touch her. "They're all the same in the Districts," he tells her sternly, "all filthy leeches that prey on sweet things like you."

Soarynn wants to believe that there's good in some people who live in the Districts, but how can she when she's proved wrong every time?

Maybe Coriolanus is right, maybe this is the only way to keep her loved ones safe.

"I should put Caspian to bed," is all she says in response.

His eyes search hers for any lies but she has none to tell him and he slowly nods, "Come down when you're done alright?" Soarynn really doesn't want to but she knows it's not up for debate, especially when he presses his thumb further into her temple, daring her to push back on his request. "Okay," she says sweetly, batting her eyelashes up at him, a trick that always deescalates his mood if he's angry.

And it does just that. Coriolanus visibly relaxes and gives her a quick kiss before saying goodnight to Caspian and disappearing back into the crowd.

The past week the two of them have been learning from each other and learning what they will and will not tolerate in their marriage and Soarynn has quickly learned that there's nothing Coriolanus despises more than push back. From anyone really, not just her but it especially ticks him off when she questions him.

She doesn't even mean to do it in a malicious way or in a pestering manner but Soarynn is curious by nature and Coriolanus is always quick to back up his reasoning with several facts, whether or not they're valid is beside the point.

"Let's go to bed," Soarynn says quietly to Caspian who lets out a tired sigh, "Lenny go to bed," he tells her. Soarynn nods and begins to make her way through the crowded room, smiling at any guests who look in her direction despite the very uncomfortable conversation she just had with Beckett.

She truly doesn't know where any of that came from, she's never met him before, she barely even watched his Games and yet he was so insistent on dancing with her. Perhaps it's a silent fight between men who are constantly trying to assert their dominance.

Coriolanus has always been rather possessive all things considered and he's never taken kindly to those who live in the Districts. That's why the Capitol citizens love him so much.

"Oh Soarynn, I've been looking all over for you dear," Eudora calls, quickly running over to her, "you're wanted by the dessert table, some ladies from the Gallery are just dying to talk with you about next year's upcoming theme." Soarynn's only been First Lady for a week but there's no rest for the weary and she's been pulled left and right to discuss things that have been left untouched since Livia passed away.

Soarynn's lips curl up into another fake smile, the same smile she's bestowed upon everyone tonight it seems, "Of course, let me just put Caspian to bed." Eudora looks around the room for a moment and perks up when she spots the girls who are milling around, accepting compliments left and right, "Why don't we get all the children to bed?" Eudora suggests, "It's getting rather late."

She's not wrong and the girls are already up way past their bedtime. "Good idea," Soarynn agrees, beckoning the girls over to them, "Mommy! Mommy, there was a chocolate fountain!" Celeste animatedly tells her, pointing at one of the long tables filled with different treats.

"That sounds like a dream come true for you girls," Soarynn muses, resting a hand on Celeste's head, "and speaking of dreams, it's time you girls go to bed."

Both Ceraphina and Celeste immediately begin pouting but Soarynn is on her last leg right now and gives them a knowing look, "You two have had lots of fun tonight haven't you? Staying up late is a treat," she reminds them, "now let's all go upstairs please."

Before I lose my mind, she thinks to herself once the girls give in to her request. Soarynn is thankful for Eudora who accompanies her upstairs and helps her get all the children to bed. She normally can manage it just fine but with the party right below them, things are just more difficult tonight.

Caspian goes down without a complaint, letting Soarynn kiss his head goodnight while his eyes drift shut. The girls are a different story though, still on their sugar high, jumping up and down on their bed, refusing to go down. Soarynn usually doesn't mind them being antsy before bed but she needs them to cooperate tonight, mostly because Coriolanus won't be happy if she's not downstairs soon.

"Girls," she says sternly, "I need you to lie down please."

"But we're not tired!"

"Well I am tired," she tells them, pulling back the covers, "now please get under the covers or we won't have time to read a story." That strikes a chord within the girls and they finally calm down and crawl under the covers, watching Soarynn with big eyes as she picks out an easy and short story for tonight.

She gets through the story quickly, making sure to do the voices they adore so much, and presses a kiss to each of their cheeks, "I love you both very much, have sweet dreams my darlings."

They both gaze up at her, nothing but love and adoration in their blue eyes, "Good night Mommy."

Soarynn turns off the bedside lamp and quietly pads out of the room, lingering by the doors for just a minute to actually make sure that they're asleep and not just pretending. She leaves once their breaths grow steady and she's met with Grant standing outside the doors, dutifully watching over her even in the comfort of her own home.

"Are you alright Mrs. Snow?"

Soarynn furrows her eyebrows and he shakes his head, "I was referring to the District boy approaching you."

Oh.

"I'm perfectly fine," Soarynn lies breezily, walking past him, "and I have quite a few guests to attend to."

She can tell that Grant doesn't fully believe her but it's not his job to care about her feelings, "I'll assign some Peacekeepers to stand guard outside the children's doors," he says and Soarynn nods, she feels much better knowing that the children are protected while she's busy downstairs.

"Thank you, Grant."

He still looks worried but Soarynn brushes it off, she's just tired that's all.

She's fine.

꧁ ꧂

Sometimes it feels as if the party never ends.

It's well past midnight and Soarynn just said goodbye to the last party guest. She's utterly exhausted and wants nothing more than to soak in the bathtub for a while before curling up in bed, preferably in her husband's arms.

But Coriolanus snuck away an hour after she returned from putting the children to sleep. She has no doubt that he's been discussing business all night long considering how many important men attend things like this but she wishes he wouldn't leave her alone to deal with all the guests.

She silently walks down the long hallway towards his study, figuring she'll just say goodnight now and make her way upstairs. If he wants to join her, then he knows where to find her.

When she reaches the doors to his study, she can hear several muffled voices from inside, all male and all very loud.

She softly knocks, wondering if they can even hear her over their voices but the doors open a moment later and she's looking up at a very tired-looking Quintus Heavensbee, "Good evening Mrs. Snow."

Soarynn gives him a polite nod, "Good evening Quintus. I was hoping to have a quick word with my husband before I retire for the night."

He looks back into the study and Soarynn hears a quiet conversation being had before she hears her husband's authoritative voice, "Bring her in Quintus." The trusted advisor moves to the side and Soarynn slowly walks into the study, looking around at the five men who have gathered here so late into the night. The fire is roaring and she sees several half-finished drinks sitting on the table by the sofas. They've been at it for quite some time.

Her husband's gaze is cold and calculated, a stark contrast to how it usually is when they're alone but they're not alone, they're in the company of very important men and Soarynn would do well to remember that.

"I apologize for interrupting," she says sweetly, earning her several grumbles from all the men insisting that she's not a bother at all. "Come here darling," Coriolanus calls from behind his desk, holding out a hand for her, and Soarynn can't do anything but go to him. Her hand slips into his large one and his fingers curl around it, tugging her to his side, "We heard that you were approached by the young Victor," one of the men says, his voice is weathered and warbly. He looks old.

Soarynn swallows, have they been talking about that all this time?

Coriolanus squeezes her hand, pulling Soarynn back into the present, "Yes," she answers, "yes I was."

Everyone in the room shares disgusted looks, "The nerve of him," one of them mutters, shaking his head, "he ought to be punished." Coriolanus grunts in agreement, "He mentioned putting his hands on her before I came to her rescue." It's so strange to be talked about as if she's not in the room with them.

"I think a trip to Two is exactly what needs to be done," Quintus says, resting a hand on the edge of the desk, "these people need to be reminded of who they serve, who they answer to."

Soarynn looks down at Coriolanus, his face is unreadable right now, "You're going to Two?" She asks softly, her gut churning at the thought of Coriolanus being away from her, from the children. They haven't been apart, not since Four. Coriolanus pinches the bridge of his nose, "There is a high possibility that I will be paying District Two a visit within the week," he says as if reciting from a script.

Quintus offers Soarynn a smile but she does not return it, "We were hoping you might accompany your husband if he goes, it would be just what we need to show them that the Capitol is an unshakable force."

"Yes, seeing the New First Lady by the President's side would be the perfect ploy," another man chimes in.

Soarynn feels like her head is spinning. "I um...I would have to think about it," is all she says, gripping her husband's hand even tighter to steady herself, "Ceraphina still has school and I can't just leave the children."

Everyone starts talking at once but Soarynn can't hear a word they're saying while they attempt to talk over one another, discussing possible solutions or alternatives. Soarynn pulls her hand away from Coriolanus, ignoring the look he gives her, ignoring the look they all give her as she stumbles towards the door. She can hear her name being called when she goes out into the hallway but she keeps walking until she reaches the back staircase.

Coriolanus is leaving? For how long? And why does she have to go with him?

Soarynn didn't realize she was signing up for all of this when she married Coriolanus but maybe it was written in one of the thousands of contracts she signed months ago.

If she's expected to make these appearances only for the sake of Capitol morale then was that his intention from the beginning? Did he only marry her to have a First Lady to cart around when needed?

Soarynn climbs the stairs at a rapid pace despite her heels and dress getting caught with one another. She doesn't even care about the dress or the shoes, she just wants out.

She just wants out.

꧁ ꧂

Coriolanus doesn't come to bed until four o'clock in the morning when Soarynn is sound asleep. Well, she was asleep until she felt him climb into bed and pull her against him, warming her body immediately. Soarynn keeps her breaths steady while he moves around to get comfortable and remains limp when he wraps an arm around her waist, burying his face in the nape of her neck.

"I'm sorry," he mumbles, pressing a gentle kiss to her tender skin, "I'm sorry for everything tonight."

Soarynn wishes she could roll over and tell him that all is forgiven but she doesn't know if it is. She needs him to apologize when they're both awake.

He can do that tomorrow morning.

Everything will be better in the morning.

꧁ ꧂

The alarm wakes the couple with a jolt. Soarynn often forgets how the day waits for no one, especially Coriolanus who is expected to treat every day like a work day, even if he threw a massive party the night before.

Coriolanus groans and his grip around her waist tightens while he kisses her shoulder, "Good morning," he mumbles.

Soarynn would never say this out loud, but she loves his voice in the morning. It's even deeper than it usually is and it's so raspy. That's probably why she enjoys morning sex the most, because his voice alone can get her off.

Soarynn doesn't know whether to give him a hard time about last night or if she should just move on and forget about it.

She decides to give him a hard time, an easy decision in her opinion.

"What was that about last night?" She asks, rolling her hips back into him. She can hear his breath hitch from her teasing actions, he's usually pent up with energy in the morning and often wakes up with a pressing problem that can be easily solved should she spread her legs for him.

"Last...last night?" He croaks out, trying to still her hips with his hand but it's no use, his cock is already hardening in his boxers and he'd rather eat glass than solve this problem on his own.

"Mhm, last night when I was spoken about as if I wasn't in the room with the rest of you," she sweetly reminds him.

Another roll of her hips miraculously jogs his memory and he lets out a quiet moan, "Oh that," he says, "yes, yes I'm so sorry about that darling. Things have just been...just been getting tense and they think it's best if I address it personally rather than from behind my desk."

Soarynn's interest is piqued and she rolls over to her stomach, teasing long forgotten as she stares into his bright blue eyes, "Coryo what's going on? You were upset before the party and you were ice cold in your study. I hardly want to be in the same room with you right now, let alone travel to District Two to show my support for you." Her words are slightly hurtful but they're truthful and he values that more than words in a pretty package.

Coriolanus looks unfairly handsome lying on his side, curls tangled and sleep still evident in his eyes. But his eyes are gentle right now, sweet and caring, looking at her as if she's the most precious thing in the world to him.

"There have been riots in Two," he says quietly, rubbing his thumb up and down the side of her hip absentmindedly, "Beckett's victory has given them hope and we can't have that. All my advisors think it's best if I go to Two to speak to the people and publically execute anyone taking part in the riots."

Soarynn shivers at his words, at how causally he mentions people being executed. She often forgets how heartless he has to be sometimes. "I didn't want you getting dragged into this," he stresses, pressing his fingers into her skin, "but when Beckett came up to you and Caspian I just...I lost control," he admits, looking down in shame, "I wanted to bring you for the sake of my pride, to show people in Two that I'll always have the last laugh. I let my pride get the best of me Soarynn, I'm sorry for everything."

Soarynn scans his blue eyes for any signs of a lie but she only finds truth and a bit of shame. "I forgive you. And I'll say it right now while we're both of sound mind and body but I'm not going with you to Two. I...I can't go to the Districts again," she whispers, painful memories flash through her mind, "even though I don't want you to go either."

Maybe in a few years, she'll gain back the courage to leave the safety of the Capitol, but not now, not when everything is still so fresh. Their marriage, the attack, the party. Soarynn knows better than to play with fire.

"Everything will be fine darling," Coriolanus assures her and he sounds so confident, so sure that everything will be fine if he leaves, "I'll tell my advisors that you can't come and that will be the end of that."

She lets out a sigh of relief, glad she won't have to leave the Capitol or the children for that matter. The holidays are right around the corner and there's so much to be done around the house. Being the official First Lady has given Soarynn access to things she couldn't dream of, including decorating the Mansion.

Soarynn leans over to press a kiss to his cheek, one he welcomes wholeheartedly while wrapping both arms around her waist and pulling her on top of him. Soarynn giggles when his lips find hers, moving in sync with one another while she rolls her hips against his in a teasing manner. He pulls away, wearing a lazy smile with his curls all tangled, "Why don't you be on top today?"

Soarynn almost falls off of him when she hears those words leave her husband's lips. Coriolanus is a man who craves control in every situation, from his children to his wife, he wants everything and everyone to do exactly as he says. Unfortunately for him, neither his children nor his wife are keen on always following his explicit rules.

To willingly let her be on top is a shock and Soarynn can't hide her expression, "Really?"

Coriolanus scoffs and his hands slide down her waist and rest on her ass, slipping his fingers under her lace panties, "Yes, really. I want to see how pretty to look sitting on my cock darling."

He has such a way with words.

Soarynn refuses to let him fluster her though and she doesn't back down from a challenge easily. Despite his past claims about her being a "pillow princess", Soarynn is sure she can manage. At least for ten minutes until she gets tired.

"Alright," she decides, lifting her hips so she can pull down his boxers far enough to take firm hold of his cock, already hard and leaking with precum. Coriolanus lets out a strangled groan from how she handles him but he's a big boy and if she can take everything he dishes to her, then he'll be just fine with what she does to him.

Soaryn has gotten well acquainted with her husband's cock over the past week, how big it feels inside of her, how it has a slight and delicious curve to it, and how he always needs to be inside of her when he finishes.

Soarynn pulls her panties to the side, seeing no point in fully undressing if she's the one in charge this morning and she teases his tip against her folds, rubbing it back and forth the same way he does it when he's on top. Coriolanus is struggling underneath her, she can tell that he's just itching to take over and do everything how he wants to do it but he holds back.

Soarynn finally lets the tip of his cock snag onto her entrance and she slowly sinks down on it, gasping at how much bigger he feels in this position. Coriolanus holds her hips gently, helping her sink down fully onto his cock and Soarynn swears that she can already see stars from how fucking deep he is inside of her. The tip of his cock is jammed against her sweet spot, making the slightest movements so very sensitive and stimulating.

"Take off your nightgown," he says breathlessly. Soarynn gives him a knowing look, if she's in charge then he's going to have to use his manners the same way she does when she's beneath him.

Coriolanus rolls his eyes but complies to her silent standards, "Take off your nightgown please my sweet darling girl who I love so very much."

Soarynn smiles and holds her chin up high, "That's better."

She pulls her nightgown over her head and tosses it to the side, baring her breasts to him while he stares up at her. "Take it slow," he advises and Soarynn is quick to squeeze her walls tightly around him, making him groan and moan, "I know," she quips, rolling her hips around to see what she likes.

Soarynn rolls her hips clockwise, then counter-clockwise, feeling how good it feels to be on top of Coriolanus who's going against everything he believes in to give her some control.

Soarynn rests a hand on his toned chest and leans forward until her hair falls over her shoulder, creating a curtain of sorts for them as she kisses him deeply, sighing when his teeth tug at her bottom lip. "You look so heavenly like this," he mumbles against her lips and she grins, "so beautiful and angelic."

Soarynn is sure that other more vulgar words could be used to describe the sight of her on top of him but she appreciates his kinder ones. Soarynn sits back up and slowly lifts her hips up before bringing them back down, gasping at how he stretches her out. Soarynn quickly finds a rhythm that suits her needs and Coriolanus is quick to sit up and wrap his arms around her waist so he can kiss her. They move in tandem with their hips, his cock drags against her walls again and again, making Soarynn whimper.

Soarynn is already growing tired but she's always had less stamina than Coriolanus who can go for hours without tiring. "Feels so good," she pants, squeezing around him, "so deep."

Coriolanus moans when she picks up the pace and one of his hands wraps around her neck, squeezing it until she feels lightheaded. Looks like he couldn't give up control for too long. Coriolanus starts pounding up into her, the sound of skin slapping and moans are all that can be heard in their bedroom. Soarynn's eyes start to roll back and she's getting closer to her peak, "Please," she whines, "please, please, please."

Coriolanus slaps her ass, "You look so perfect like this angel, stuck on my cock like the good girl you are for me hmm? Just taking whatever I give you. Wish I could keep you like this all day long."

Soarynn tries to form a proper sentence but her mind is so clouded by lust and the feeling of him inside of her that all she can do is let out a pitiful moan. Coriolanus presses sloppy kisses to her jaw, sucking on the skin while deepening his thrusts. "Cum for me Soarynn, be my good girl and cum for me." It doesn't take much more after that, Soarynn's hips are rolling like they have a mind of their own, and suddenly that wire inside of her snaps.

All she sees is white as her back arches and Coriolanus keeps fucking her. She can hear him swearing, saying more nasty things to her while he tries to reach his own peak.

Soarynn goes limp in his hold, trusting him to hold her while he fucks up into her, finally reaching his orgasm and spilling inside of her. She moans softly at the feeling of his cum getting lodged deep inside of her, just how he likes it. Soarynn rests her chin on his shoulder and simply sits there, not in a rush to start the clean-up process.

Coriolanus rubs circles on her back and whispers sweet words and compliments, rocking them back and forth. Soarynn feels so content like this which is funny because a year ago she was so focused on the kiss they shared on the train. Now he's buried deep inside of her on a quiet morning. Her eyes fall shut and she feels him slowly lay back down and pull the covers over them. They should take a shower, Ceraphina has school today and Coriolanus has work but he always makes sure to take care of her before getting out of bed.

Soarynn doesn't know how long they lie there like that, still connected. Maybe hours, maybe minutes. She's overwhelmed by the scent of roses, comforting and reassuring that all will be well so long as she has Coriolanus. He gently taps her hip and Soarynn begrudgingly lifts her head to look down at him, "What?"

He chuckles, brushing her hair out of her face, "We have to get up darling."

Soarynn pouts, she usually doesn't mind going about their routine shortly after having sex in the morning but this just feels different and she can't explain why. "I'm sore," she whines. She's not lying, she's been in a constant state of soreness since their wedding night since neither of them can get enough of the other person.

Coriolanus smirks and lifts his head to peck her lips, "You're always sore," he sweetly reminds her, "and we have to get up before the children." He, unfortunately, has a point. Soarynn grumbles before she sits up and looks down at the ungodly sight of his cock still inside of her cunt, it does something to her and makes her want to go another few rounds before leaving their bed.

Coriolanus seems to pick up on her inner thoughts and brings a hand to her clit, rubbing it with his thumb. Soarynn moans, her back arches and she ruts against him, already overstimulated, to begin with. "Coryo," she whines, trying to pull herself off of him but he's quick to pull her back down with his other hand, "I thought you liked it when I played with you darling," he says, shaking his head with false disappointment.

It had its intended effect though and Soarynn whines, "I do," she mumbles, digging her nails into her thighs, "I do like it."

Coriolanus keeps rubbing her clit and just when she thought he couldn't do anything else, he lodges a finger in her cunt, adding to the sensation of his cock still being inside of her. Soarynn almost screams from the feeling, from the now burning and aching stretch of her cunt being filled to the brim with Coriolanus Snow.

"You always take it so well," he praises, "my fingers, my cock, and now my fingers and my cock. I really did marry a little whore didn't I?"

Soarynn wants to tell him that he's wrong, that she's not a whore but he starts moving his finger inside of her and it's all too much for her. Soarynn feels a tear roll down her face and her walls start to flutter around him, a telltale sign that she's about to cum again. "I...I'm not," she croaks, unable to look away from what he's so shamelessly doing to her. Coriolanus scoffs a laugh, condescending and taunting, "You're not what doll? Not a whore? Or not taking it like you should?"

He pinches her clit and she's done for.

Soarynn cums again and this time, she feels herself shaking and she feels herself getting wetter and wetter, she might just squirt again. He'd love that, Coriolanus has been desperately trying to get her to do it again since he found out she could do it.

Soarynn folds forward, trusting him to catch her and he does, he'll always catch her.

She lays there in his hold and feels his finger slowly slip out of her cunt and hears him groan at the mess she's made, "Such a good girl," he mumbles against her head.

That's the last thing that she hears before she gives back into sleep.

꧁ ꧂

"C'mon Mommy!"

Soarynn is out of breath from climbing all the steps leading up to the Academy but Ceraphina Snow waits for no one. Her daughter is already running through the doors into the foyer of the school, looking so cute in her little uniform. "I'm coming," she calls, shouldering her purse. Today Ceraphina is presenting her family tree and Soarynn has been given the privilege of attending her presentation.

All family members are encouraged to see their children present in front of the class but due to work, Coriolanus couldn't make it. But Soarynn could and she knows how important it is to show up.

Soarynn offers a smile to anyone she passes while following Ceraphina down the hallway, she hasn't been here in years but in the past few months, it's felt like she's lived here. Maximus walks beside her, his brown hair slicked back and his face neutral as he scans the hallway, "She's been working very hard on this project," he tells her. Maximus is much more talkative than Grant is, making him the perfect fit for Ceraphina who would talk to a rock if she could.

Soarynn hums, Ceraphina hasn't stopped talking about it since they started last month. She needed photographs of all their family members and even interviewed Coriolanus to ask him questions about the Snow family lineage. Very impressive for such a young girl.

"I'm quite excited to see what she's done," Soarynn admits, really just eager to see Ceraphina interact with her classmates. Ceraphina runs into her classroom and Soarynn hears several excited shrieks from inside.

Soarynn slowly approaches the open door, peeking inside and watching as Ceraphina hugs one of her friends who has long black hair, "Today's my day for the project," she tells her friend proudly.

"Ceraphina honey, let's hang up your coat and bag remember?" Her teacher softly reminds her, resting a hand on her back. Ceraphina nods and goes over to the hooks on the wall, "My Mommy came with me today," she tells her teacher, pointing at the door. Soarynn straightens up and steps into the classroom, nodding at Mrs. McDowell whose eyes are as wide as saucers despite meeting Soarynn several times already.

Soarynn has forgotten how important she is to people now that she's married to Coriolanus.

"Madame Snow," Mrs. McDowell gushes, bowing her head in respect, "it's such an honor to have you grace our classroom this morning."

Soarynn gives the woman a kind smile, "Thank you for having me, I'm so excited to see Ceraphina's presentation." Ceraphina jumps up and down, overcome with excitement, "Can I show her my desk, Mrs. McDowell? Can I? Can I?"

Mrs. McDowell keeps her gaze on Soarynn but answers Ceraphina, "Of course, you can honey."

Ceraphina runs over and takes Soarynn's hand, dragging her into the classroom towards all of the tiny desks. Soarynn can't get enough of how tiny everything is. The desks, the children, the school supplies. It's so adorable. "This is my desk Mommy," Ceraphina proudly tells her, resting a hand on the small desk, "I keep my crayons and pencils in here."

Soarynn raises her eyebrows, very impressed, "Well aren't you fancy? Crayons and pencils?" Ceraphina giggles and pulls Soarynn towards the front of the room where there's a chalkboard along with a bookshelf tucked in the corner, "This is our class pet, Mr. Bubbles!"

Soarynn crouches down to look at the bottom shelf and is genuinely surprised to find a goldfish swimming around in a tank, "He wasn't here when we came to the open house," Soarynn murmurs, knowing she'd remember if they had a class pet. Coriolanus on the other hand, can barely remember the teacher's name.

"We got him because we were very well-behaved," Ceraphina says matter-of-factly, wearing a proud smile on her face, "and I get to feed him this week because that's my class chore." Ceraphina points at the chalkboard and Soarynn looks over to see that there's a list of class chores scrawled across the board with the students' names written under the tasks. The line leader, feeding Mr. Bubbles, turning off the lights, passing out papers.

"How responsible of all of you." Soarynn wonders where this enthusiasm for chores goes when Ceraphian returns home and doesn't want to make her bed.

More students file into the classroom and Soarynn stands by the bookshelf, simply observing her daughter while she interacts with everyone. She hugs the girls but stays far away from the boys, something Coriolanus would be proud of. One of the girls, the girl with the black hair slowly approaches Soarynn with a wary look in her eyes, "Are you Ceraphina's Mommy?"

Soarynn nods, bending down to be at eye level with the child, "I am her mother," she confirms, "what's your name?" The girl offers Soarynn a sweet smile and clasps her hands, "Diamond." How precious. Soarynn holds out her hand, "Pleased to meet you, Diamond."

Diamond gently shakes her hand, scanning Soarynn's face which leads her to worry if she covered all of the marks Coriolanus gave her properly, "You're prettier than on television," Diamond tells her.

Soarynn withholds her sigh of relief and chuckles, "Well, thank you, that's very kind."

"Alright children, let's find our seats so we can listen to the morning announcements," Mrs. McDowell says with a clap of her hands. Diamond scurries back to her desk, right next to Ceraphina's and the girls start whispering about something, their eyes flitting to Soarynn every once in a while. Soarynn grins, remembering when she was that young and amazed by everything grown-ups did.

Soarynn stands back up and listens as the intercom crackles and the announcements begin. Most of them are mundane things like what will be served for lunch and what sports will be conducting practice after school for the older children. The children to their credit, listen attentively while Mrs. McDowell passes out papers to each of them.

Once the announcements commence, Mrs. McDowell comes to stand next to Soarynn, a bright smile on her face, "Today Ceraphina will be presenting her family tree project and the First Lady has so graciously taken the time out of her very busy day to join us."

All of the children softly gasp except for Ceraphina who kicks her feet in anticipation, "Now let's give Ceraphina our full attention while she shows us her family tree." Ceraphina slides out from behind her desk, skipping to the front to stand by Soarynn, "You can sit at my desk if you want Mommy," she whispers.

Soarynn eyes the very tiny seat that has been offered up to her, "That's very generous of you darling." Ceraphina looks up expectantly at her, clearly waiting for Soarynn to sit down so she does just that. It's a bit awkward sitting in such a small chair but Soarynn manages to do it although her knees are almost pulled up to her chest. It's a good thing she wore a long dress today.

Ceraphina nods in approval and turns to the chalkboard where Mrs. McDowell is hanging a large poster of sorts. Soarynn's eyes widen when she finally sees the family tree that Ceraphina has created and it's a very big family tree.

Ceraphina turns to face the class and clears her throat, "Good morning, my name is Ceraphina Snow and today I will be showing my family tree. Family trees are important because they help us keep track of our ance..." Her voice dies off and she glances over at Mrs. McDowell who gives her an encouraging nod, "'Cause it helps us keep track of our ancestors who are people that lived before us," Ceraphina finishes with a satisfying grin.

"My family tree has three sides, my Daddy's side," she points at a handsome photograph of Coriolanus, "my Mommy's side," she points at the photograph of Soarynn, "and my other Mommy's side," she says, touching a photograph of Livia. "My other Mommy isn't here anymore but now we have a new one because she married my Daddy," she explains, looking around the room to make sure everyone is following.

"My Daddy's parents got married and then they had him," Ceraphina points even further up the tree at two smaller photos of a Crassus Snow and his wife, "then he got married to my other Mommy," she drags her finger to Livia's photograph. "Her parents got married and had her. My Mommy and Daddy got married and they had me," Ceraphina points at herself, "my little sister Celeste and my little brother Caspian."

Soarynn follows the lines all the way down to the children's photographs and can't help but notice how cute they all look.

"But then, my Mommy got sick," Ceraphina says dramatically, pulling gasps from the children who most likely don't remember Livia, "so she died and we buried her in the ground." Soarynn looks around at the children's forlorn faces and Ceraphina bounces on her toes, "But then we got a new Mommy!"

Everyone perks up at her words, "My Daddy married my new Mommy, whose parents had her," she stands on her tiptoes and points at the photographs of Glen and Cera Nightingale, "and now we're all one big family."

Diamond lets out a relieved sigh as if this is a television show and not real life, "Over here I have other members of my family even though we aren't really related," Ceraphina says with a shrug, "I have Petunia who's our cat, then Eudora who tells my Daddy what to do and where to go." Soarynn has to cover her laugh with a cough, "We also have our bodyguards who keep us safe, Maximus and Grant. And that is my family tree!"

Ceraphina does a dramatic curtsy and everyone begins clapping including Soarynn. "Well done Ceraphina," Mrs. McDowell praises, "family trees are important because not all families are the same," she explains to the class, "they come in all different sizes."

Soarynn nods along to her words, they certainly do. The Snow family seems to be quite a set of wild cards but she wouldn't have it any other way. Not when it gave her the sweet little girl in front of her.

꧁ ꧂

It's only eleven o'clock in the morning but Soarynn is already tired. She blames it on the morning sex.

She's greeted by Eudora the second she steps inside, "How was Ceraphina's family tree presentation?" Soarynn takes off her coat and hands it to the Avox waiting to take her things, "It was adorable, " she tells the older woman, "she had photos of you and Petunia."

Speaking of Petunia, a white blur trots towards Soarynn and she grins, "Why hello little lady, looks like you finally decided to wake up hmm?"

Petunia is hardly affected by Coriolanus and Soarynn's active sex life. She has a very nice, comfortable cat bed that she sleeps in while her humans roll around in the sheets and she's never been afraid to sleep in.

Petunia purrs, rubbing her body against Soarynn's boots she chose to wear today, "No one has arrived yet for the lady's luncheon," Eudora informs her as they begin walking down the great hall, "two women had to cancel last minute and the table's already been set." Soarynn nods along to her words, running through the guest list for today's lady's luncheon. While Coriolanus deals with the elite men of the Capitol, Soarynn deals with the women.

Coriolanus has it much easier in her opinion.

Men are simple creatures with simple wants and needs. Women, on the other hand, are very complicated creatures who run off of emotions and Soarynn has dealt with a lot of emotions from different women this past week. She's attended a handful of social events since becoming First Lady and she's dealt with the three same things at every single one: drama, gossip, and tears.

Soarynn does her best to remain removed from any drama or gossip as it would taint her image along with her husband's image as well and she can't have that. She also just doesn't care for the frills of the elite social life the way other women do. Soarynn would much rather be curled up in the library with her children than at some gallery staring at white canvases with a single black dot in the middle.

She's voiced these feelings to Coriolanus who's simply said that her way of thinking is a rare thing to cherish in a world of gossiping, backstabbing women who never grew out of their schoolgirl days. He certainly has a blunt way of putting things.

"Where are the children?" Soarynn asks, ignoring any new updates for today's schedule. She's anxious to have her darlings back in her hold before she has to go host this luncheon and seeing all the adorable children in Ceraphina's class has only led her to want to have at least six more children. Coriolanus shouldn't mind and Soarynn would be more than happy to endure the pregnancies.

"In the playroom dear, oh, and the results from all of your testing finally came back," Eudora tells her, steering them towards the sitting room she does most of her work in. Soarynn focuses on the file sitting on the coffee table, the file that holds all the results from the various tests she and Coriolanus had to do before getting married.

Eudora bends down and grabs the file, holding it out to Soarynn, "Go over it when you have a minute or two. There shouldn't be anything amiss."

Soarynn hums and takes the file between her fingers, fighting the urge to sit down and read all of the results between her and her husband right now but she resists the urge. She has to see the children first. "I'm going to go see the children and freshen up before lunch," she tells Eudora, already making her way out of the sitting room.

Soarynn takes the back staircase and Petunia ends up joining her in climbing up all the stairs, "I should really start taking the elevator," Soarynn mumbles to herself. Coriolanus has mentioned the elevator before but she's never used it. She can hear Celeste and Caspian from down the hallway, giggling while they play together.

The first few days of Ceraphina going to school had been an adjustment, to say the least for everyone. Celeste had lost her partner in crime and Caspian suddenly was given a lot more attention by Celeste than he was used to. Caspian prefers to play by himself, building up his blocks, playing with his stuffed animals quietly in the corner while Ceraphina and Celeste go do whatever it is that they do.

To have Ceraphina gone was like missing a limb.

Soarynn often found herself turning to say something to her eldest daughter only to realize that she was at school and not by her side. Spending every waking moment with her children was a double-edged sword it seemed. She got to cherish every moment with them, every milestone. But those milestones meant they were growing up, getting too big to need help like they used to.

But she still has time with them and she can always have more children which will mean more time with them.

At least that's what she tells herself before walking into the playroom where Celeste and Caspian are busy building a tower out of their blocks. Celeste notices Soarynn first and perks up, a giant smile growing across her face, "Mommy!"

She almost sends their tower to the ground when she stands up and runs over to Soarynn, throwing her arms around Soarynn's legs. Soarynn chuckles, resting a loving hand on top of Celeste's curls, "Hello my darling. Did you two miss me?"

Caspian remains in his spot on the floor and nods, "Yes," he says, nodding his head, "Momma come play."

Well, she can't say no to that.

Celeste beams up at her and takes notice of the file in Soarynn's hand, "What's that Mommy?"

Soarynn shakes her head, "Just some paperwork darling."

She follows Celeste back over to the tower they're building and makes herself comfortable on the floor in between the children, asking them about this very impressive tower they're building.

"A princess lives inside of the tower," Celeste tells her matter-of-factly. Caspian adds another block to the base of the tower, "Lion." Celeste nods, "And a lion lives there too, they live together and the lion protects the princess 'cause there's a witch who wants..."

Soarynn smiles fondly while Celeste continues to explain the lore of the tower. She could say whatever she wanted and Soarynn would still find herself nodding along to her words, so enamored by the sweet girl.

Soarynn's eyes, unfortunately, drift back to the file sitting on the floor and she can't help but pick it up again and open it this time, scanning over the pages. Most of it is talking about things she doesn't really care about like her height and weight, how much muscle mass Coriolanus has. She's sure he'll spend hours reading over this when she gives it to him.

She flips to the next page, scanning over all of their blood work which seems to be normal thank goodness. She's sure that the doctor could explain it better in more detail to her if she asked him to. Soarynn turns to the next page and her eyes drop to the bottom of the page where she sees three words in bold.

Fertility Test Results

Her heart starts racing and she brings a shaky finger to the page, resting it on the words that hold her entire future.

She reads the next two lines.

Coriolanus Snow - Fertile Soarynn Nightingale - Infertile

Infertile.

Infertile?

Soarynn can't stop the sharp gasp from leaving her lips while she reads those words over and over again. This can't be, there must be some mistake. There's no way that she's infertile. She's so young, she has so much life ahead of her and yet she's incapable of creating it.

They must've mistyped this, Coriolanus will be sure to fire whoever is responsible for this. Oh, Coriolanus. How will she tell him? And what if she really is infertile?

Soarynn feels as if all of her hopes and dreams have been dashed from her before she could even start thinking about them. She can't have any children. She can't get pregnant no matter how much she tries.

Soarynn blinks back tears, she can't afford to cry right now, not in front of the children who remain oblivious to her internal dilemma.

"Soarynn dear, the ladies are beginning to arrive," Eudora says, knocking on the playroom doors. Celeste looks up at Soarynn with furrowed brows, "What's wrong Mommy? Why do you look so sad?" Soarynn has forgotten how perceptive the children can be, especially Celeste who's always worn her heart on her sleeve just like Soarynn.

Soarynn presses a smile to her lips and gently pats Celeste's cheek, "Nothing's wrong darling, I'm perfectly fine," she lies. Even though she's not. She's not fine, she's devastated.

But she has things to do, people to attend to, children to take care of.

"I'm going to go downstairs and have lunch with some very important ladies and after that, we can go pick up your sister from school okay?" She might as well treat today like a normal day for the sake of the children, and her sanity.

Celeste and Caspian nod, "Will you tell us about Ceraphina's project?" Celeste asks, grabbing onto Soarynn's arm. Celeste and Caspian had been very fascinated by the family tree project and offered their help to Ceraphina several times while she politely declined their offers. Soarynn debated taking them to the presentations today but decided against it after Coriolanus said they'd probably get antsy.

"I will," Soarynn confirms, swiftly placing a kiss on top of Celeste's head before leaning over to do the same with Caspian, "I'll be back soon okay?"

After making sure the children are okay, Soarynn follows Eudora down the hall towards the grand staircase, a million thoughts running through her mind. Coriolanus had said that he’s more than happy with the children they already have but Soarynn so badly wanted to get pregnant, to carry a little baby inside of her and then give birth. She wasn’t there for when the children were babies and there’s not enough photos that can make up for that.

She wanted her own baby and she doesn’t care how bad that sounds.

“…so don’t mention that to her and are you alright dear?” Soarynn nearly runs into Eudora who looks very concerned for Soarynn’s wellbeing, “Oh, I’m fine,” Soarynn waves her off, “just a bit hungry so I suppose it’s good that we’re about to eat.”

Soarynn can tell that Eudora doesn’t believe a word she says but she doesn’t push her which is greatly appreciated. Soarynn can already hear the excited chatter from the women downstairs, it’s not every day you get invited to have lunch in the President’s Mansion.

Soarynn can’t ruin this for them, not if she values her reputation as the ever-so-kind and gracious First Lady.

No, she’ll have to push through, wait until tonight when she can tell Coriolanus the devastating news.

After all, she’s done it before and she can do it again.

꧁ ꧂

“Such a beautiful family portrait,” Mrs. Heavensbee comments as they walk down the great hall. Lunch felt like the longest lunch Soarynn had ever been to.

It was filled with surface-level conversations and to no one’s surprise, gossip and drama. Soarynn was rather quiet at lunch and she hopes that no one took offense to it.

She looks up at the large portrait that now hangs on the wall, the same wall that was occupied by the portrait that had Livia in it.

This one looks a little bit different.

Coriolanus looks tremendously handsome in his black suit with his arm wrapped around Soarynn’s waist while she wears a beautiful red dress that drapes on the floor. The children sit in front of them on a decorative bench with Petunia in Ceraphina’s lap.

Getting Coriolanus to agree to let Petunia be in the official portrait was like pulling teeth but Soarynn luckily knew his weaknesses. After a few blow jobs, he would’ve agreed to anything.

“Thank you,” she says, allowing herself a genuine smile at the compliment, “we were quite pleased with how it turned out.”

They had it done the day she and Coriolanus got back from their honeymoon. There had been lots of whining from the children who didn’t want to sit still for that long and lots of lethal glares from Coriolanus who didn’t like whining children.

Soarynn played the Peacekeeper for the afternoon, soothing over hurt feelings from both sides and they managed to get what they needed which was all that really mattered.

“Do you have any plans for more children?”

That question cuts deep into Soarynn’s heart. She can’t cry now, not when she’s so close to getting all of these women out of her house. She simply shakes her head, “We haven’t discussed it yet,” she lies, acting nonchalant, “we already have three perfect children.” That part isn’t a lie.

Mrs. Heavensbee hums, she’s the perfect fit for her husband, both of them are somewhat reserved but very passionate when they want to be. She has two children of her own, Perlina and Plutarch who are in Ceraphina’s class.

“It was wonderful having you ladies,” Soarynn says, turning to face the rest of the group.

It really wasn’t but she’ll keep that to herself.

The women shower her with compliments about today's lunch and of course, her wedding. Even though it's been over a week since she got married, Soarynn is still asked about it. She'll have to start writing thank you cards for everyone who attended, heaven knows she'll be busy with that.

She makes sure everyone is in a car and on their way out before she allows herself to feel miserable again. How can she be unable to have children? Is this some sort of genetic thing? Is there a pill that she can take to fix it?

Marrying the President means having access to every procedure, pill, and doctor in all of Panem. If there's a way to fix this, Coriolanus will find it.

At least that's what she tells herself.

꧁ ꧂

Watching Capitol children spill out of the Academy building is not Soarynn's idea of a perfect afternoon but the children always get so excited to accompany Soarynn when she goes to pick up Ceraphina. She could hardly deny them of this small joy, even if she herself wanted to crawl into a hole and never come out.

"Oh, I see her! I see her Mommy!"

Celeste jumps up and down while holding Soarynn's hand, eager to reunite with her big sister. Soarynn had given up on trying to place Ceraphina in such a large crowd of children, instead, she searched for her bodyguard Maximus who was heads above even the tallest Academy student. And sure enough, she finds him and Ceraphina is right in front of him, her hair blonde as ever.

"School," Caspian says, pointing at the building. Soarynn hums, Caspian has been more talkative lately and she couldn't be happier. She and Coriolanus had spoken with several child behaviorists who said that the reason for his quietness was due to the fact that his mother died when he was still attached to her. Livia's death hindered his speech but now that he had a constant motherly figure in his life, Soarynn, he'd start talking more and more.

The man assured the couple that Caspian would be talking just like his sisters by the time he started going to school.

"That's right darling," Soarynn nods, "one day you'll go to school with your big sisters." Celeste pulls on Soaryn's hand, "When do I get to start ballet lessons?"

Coriolanus had decided that he wanted to enroll the girls in some sort of extracurricular activity in the new year. Soarynn had suggested lots of things such as painting, and singing, but dancing was something he and the girls both agreed on. The girls were enamored by the ballerinas they saw in their beautiful costumes.

They'd start in January but Celeste struggled to understand the concept of time. She just wanted to wear the slippers and tutu.

"In January darling," Soarynn tells her, "so in about a month."

"Can we go ride Snowflake when we get home?"

"Of course, we can sweetheart."

With the riding lessons, piano lessons, and now ballet lessons, Soarynn was bound to have her hands full getting the girls from one place to another. Coriolanus had suggested they hire a nanny and Soarynn nearly suggested that he go for a long walk outside.

She was the nanny. Now she was the children's mother. They didn't need a nanny when they had her.

No matter how thin she'd be spread, she refused to look into hiring a nanny. It was out of the question.

꧁ ꧂

"Go Snowflake go!"

Soarynn chuckles while Ceraphina tries to get Snowflake to pick up the pace but he's been trained to trot inside of the paddock, not gallop. "Take it slow darling," she calls out, "you don't want to wear him out."

It's a cold day in November, one of the last ones before they step into December which means lots of holiday events to attend. But today isn't windy which makes being outside much more bearable. Soarynn had bundled herself and the children in thick, warm coats with mittens and gloves to match. She didn't want anyone getting sick before such a busy month.

She shivers when remembering the time that Ceraphina got sick from a classmate at school and gave it to Celeste and Caspian. It had been a rough week in the Snow household. Coriolanus had practically barricaded himself in his study, claiming he couldn't afford to get sick.

Soarynn had rolled her eyes when he said that, men were so dramatic when it came down to getting sick, acting as if their arms had been cut off.

"Mommy, why is the sky gray?"

Soarynn looks up at the cloudy gray sky, it's been gloomy all day, just like her mood. "It's probably going to snow darling," she says to Celeste, "or rain."

"Are we gonna have dinner with Daddy tonight?"

Soarynn shakes her head and gives Celeste a small smile, "No sweetheart, we have dinner with him on Sundays, remember?"

After asking her to marry him, Coriolanus unknowingly exposed himself to a new lifestyle and routine now that Soarynn was here to stay. That lifestyle included having dinner as a family once a week. She wasn't unrealistic, asking him to have dinner with them every night was impossible with his busy schedule but on Sunday nights, no matter how busy he was, they all had dinner together.

The children loved it. They missed having dinner with their father so to see him for breakfast and dinner was a treat as special as any. Soarynn secretly hoped that one day he might take all of Sunday off to spend it with them but she was taking it slow, baby steps were necessary with a man like Coriolanus who despises lack of control or change.

"Oh, sorry I forgot," Celeste mumbles. Soarynn feels a frown tugging her lips down and she crouches down so that she's at eye-level with Celeste, "There's no need to apologize, Celeste, it was an honest mistake."

She reaches out to hold Celeste's face in her hand, rubbing her thumb over the child's cheek, "But I was thinking that tonight we might make dinner extra special by having breakfast for dinner."

Celeste gasps, her bright blue eyes wide as saucers, "We can do that?" Soarynn laughs, she's never done it before herself but it sounds like a fun idea, something to spice things up from their normal routine. "We sure can," she answers, "we can have waffles and pancakes, and all your favorite things."

Caspain butts in after hearing about the possibility of pancakes, his favorite breakfast food, "Panacakes?" Soarynn and Celeste giggle, "Yes sweet boy, we can have pancakes."

Celeste runs over to the paddock gate and grabs onto it, "Ceraphina! We're gonna have breakfast for dinner tonight! Mommy says so!"

Ceraphina pulls on the reigns, bringing Snowflake to a halt, "Really?" She asks, her voice doubtful. Being the oldest means she's grown to expect promises to be broken, mainly by her father who struggled to keep his word while trying to put their broken family back together.

Soarynn stands back up, a determined look on her face, "Really," she nods, "it'll be fun."

Ceraphian grins, "Okay!"

Soarynn might still feel sorry for herself but she'd never let that get in the way of the children she has right now, children she won't ever take for granted.

꧁ ꧂

Everything was going great until Ceraphina and Celeste asked how they were born.

Which was something Soarynn had limited knowledge of for a number of reasons. She hadn't been working for the Snows when the girls were born and even if she was, she certainly wouldn't have been there for the birth. But that didn't stop the girls from asking more questions about giving birth which to her luck, led to questions about being pregnant.

It was like a stab to the heart.

She answered all of their questions calmly and patiently before kissing them goodnight and promising to see them tomorrow. Only when she closed the doors behind her did the tears start to form in her eyes.

It just wasn't fair, wasn't fair that she couldn't get pregnant.

Since she could remember she's always wanted to be a mother, to have a baby and raise it as her own.

But she can't. She can't and her head hurts and she's tired and all she wants in the whole wide world right now is her husband. She slips off her heels before trudging downstairs to his study. She doesn't know how she'll tell him, how she'll apologize for not being a good wife, the wife fit for a Snow.

She vowed to bear any children he'd gift to her and she already broke it.

A few tears roll down her cheeks as she finally reaches the doors that lead to his study. She raises her fist to knock but stops when she hears voices inside. He's busy, probably in a meeting. Should she knock, she'll be told that he's busy and she can't let anyone see her like this. No, she'll just wait.

She sits on the small, decorative sofa that sits right outside of his study, pressed against the wall under a portrait of his father, Crassus Xanthos Snow. She looks up at it for a moment, he looks stern, commanding, she can see where Coriolanus got it from. She wonders if this man would see her as a good fit for his son.

Probably not.

Soarynn sits there for what feels like hours, watching the moon through the large windows across from her. She should just go to bed and tell him in the morning but Soarynn can't bear to carry this burden any longer.

She's about to fall asleep when she hears the doors to his study open accompanied by several men grumbling among one another. She slowly pushes herself to her feet, in no rush to face her humiliation. One of the men finally looks in her direction and clears his throat, bowing at the waist, "Madame Snow."

Soarynn musters up a graceful smile when the other man takes notice of her as well and does the same thing, paying their respects. Quintus is the last one out and he looks more concerned than surprised to see her lingering outside her husband's study so late at night.

"Our meeting ran a bit longer," he explains, "we do hate to keep you from your husband this late into the night." Soarynn shakes her head, she doesn't even care at this point, "It's quite alright. Have a good night Quintus."

Rarely does she ever dismiss anyone in her house but she wants to be alone with Coriolanus. She doesn't need spectators.

Quintus thankfully picks up on this and nods, "Good night Madame Snow."

Soarynn watches him walk down the long hallway, chatting with the others as if there's anything left to talk about in this world before she walks into the empty study. Coriolanus is sitting by the fireplace, deep in thought from the looks of it. He merely tilts his head in her direction, "Did you leave something behind?"

Soarynn quietly closes the doors behind her, she doesn't even want the Avoxes to hear her. "It's me," she whispers.

Coriolanus finally looks over at her and his stern expression melts off immediately, "Darling, I thought you'd be in bed at this hour." Soarynn shrugs and forces herself not to cry, "I'm not," is all she says.

Coriolanus reaches a hand out, silently asking her to come to him and she does, slower than usual but she feels like she's been chained to the ground. The moment her fingers find his, he's pulling her into his lap, resting her thighs over his and wrapping an arm around her waist. It's the type of gentleness she needs right now.

Coriolanus kisses her cheek, the smell of roses lingers around him at all hours of the day, "How was your day hmm? Did Ceraphina's presentation go well?"

Soarynn thinks back to this morning, it feels like a hundred years ago. She remembers the family tree, how under Coriolanus and Livia's name were the names of their children.

There will be no names under hers.

"It was good," she whispers, watching the fire crackle with the firewood. Coriolanus gently rests a hand on her cheek, making her look at him, "Soarynn, what's wrong? Did something happen?"

Soarynn gasps, the floodgates are wide open now. "I can't," she cries, tears spilling down her cheeks in an instant, "I can't and I've broken my vows."

she can see how conflicted and confused he is by her words, "You broke...you broke your vows? How? Darling, tell me what happened and we'll make it right."

Soarynn shakes her head, she's sobbing now, "We can't. We can't have children together."

She watches through tears as Coriolanus tries to understand her, "The results," she gasps, "I can't get pregnant."

Soarynn wants to die, she wants to close her eyes and never wake up. The stress of the wedding, of becoming First Lady, of being the perfect wife and mother has all crashed down on her all at once.

She can see how heartbroken he is, even if he tries to hide it. She knows how badly he would've loved for them to have more children together.

Soarynn buries her face in his shirt, staining it with her tears and mascara no doubt but she doesn't care right now. She feels him cradling her head, murmuring words that she doesn't care to hear right now.

She just wants to sleep and wake up to realize that this was all a bad dream.

It's all a bad dream.

꧁ ꧂

"...test results were negative..."

"...doctors can't do anything..."

"... she's heartbroken..."

"...could always go the surrogate route..."

꧁ ꧂

When Soarynn wakes up, she's in her bedroom.

The lights are dim and her mouth is dry.

Soarynn slowly sits up, groaning at her stiff limbs, she ought to start stretching before going to bed each night.

Soarynn looks over at her bedside table and sees a glass of water and two red pills next to it, no explanation as to what they'll do. She takes the water but not the pills.

Coriolanus isn't in bed but she can see the bathroom light is on. A meow comes from the floor and Soarynn cranes her neck to see Petunia looking up at her, tail bushy and ears perked. Soarynn pats the space next to her and Petunia expertly leaps onto the bed, immediately climbing into Soarynn's lap. She absentmindedly pets her soft fur, wondering what time it is, if Coriolanus is going to file for divorce. She vaguely remembers hearing his voice along with Eudora's but she doesn't exactly remember what they said.

"Oh, Petunia," she sighs, "I just got everything I ever wanted and now I'm back to where I started."

She hears a snort come from the bathroom and looks over to find Coriolanus standing in the doorway, shirtless, wearing only his boxers and an amused expression on his face. "If I recall, you started as a single, childless, quiet woman with no living family besides that cat," he says calmly, "have we already come full circle?"

Soarynn blushes and looks down, she was just being dramatic but he has a point, "No," she mumbles, "I have more than I could ever dream of." And she does. She has a husband who loves her, children who adore her, a beautiful home to call her own, food, water, all the clothes she could want, and then some. She's the luckiest woman in Panem and here she is throwing herself a pity party.

Coriolanus pads over to her side of the bed, gently sitting down next to her, "Darling," he reaches out and brushes some of her hair behind her ear, "I read over all the test results."

Soarynn looks up at him, eager to hear that it was wrong, that she misread something. He sighs, "The results were correct, you're infertile and can't get pregnant no matter what we do."

Her entire body deflates, she's gutted all over again. She had held onto a sliver of hope that maybe he'd find a way to fix this but not even Coriolanus Snow could help her. "Oh," she says glumly, "there's not...there's not like a surgery or a shot I could get?" She gives him a hopeful, desperate look but he can only return it with a sad smile, "My love, there's nothing we can do. I called the doctor and we went over every possible option. Anything we could remotely try would either lead to your death or the baby's death and I won't ever risk that."

Soarynn feels angry at him even though he's completely justified in his reasoning. Would she risk her life for her child's life? Absolutely. But could she handle losing her baby? No, she'd be devastated.

"I just really wanted it," she whispers, her voice breaks but as long as he's here then she'll be okay, "I just really wanted to have another baby." Coriolanus wraps an arm around her, comforting her in her lowest moments as he vowed to do, "I did too," he tells her softly, "but Soarynn, you can't blame yourself, you did nothing wrong. The doctor suspects it might be genetic, think of your own mother and what happened to her. Even she struggled to get pregnant if I recall."

Her breath catches in her throat she hadn't even thought of it like that but he's right. Perhaps the same fate fell onto her own mother but she was able to get pregnant. Except she didn't survive. Only Soarynn did, leaving her father alone and she knows that Coriolanus will be damned if he's left alone again.

Even if it means that his wife will be miserable for the rest of their lives, she knows he'll take that chance over anything else any day.

"Livia struggled too," he whispers, "she...she almost lost Ceraphina midway through the pregnancy. And my own mother died trying to give birth to my little sister. We've suffered from enough tragedy at the hands of childbirth for a lifetime darling, we have three beautiful children who are just down the hall so I think we should make the most of it, don't you?"

Soarynn sniffles, wiping away any last tears before looking up at him, "I do," she says, "I want to make the most of it, even if I'll always think about what could've been." Coriolanus hums, pressing a kiss to her temple, "I know you would've been good, a good mother to our new baby but we can't get caught in the past, trust me I know."

Soarynn nods, Coriolanus refuses to linger in the past, marrying her is a clear testament to that belief.

She leans into his hold, feeling safe and above all, loved once again despite her flaws, "I love you," she says.

He tightens his grip on her, "In sickness and in health darling, I'll always love you."

Always is such a sweet promise to make.

꧁ ꧂

꧁ One Year Later ꧂

"Thank you so much for taking the time out of your day to sit down with us Madame Snow."

Soarynn smiles warmly at the interviewer, "Please, call me Soarynn."

She's gotten used to living in the spotlight, being questioned for every little thing she does but Soarynn is happy with this life she's chosen. She wouldn't have it any other way.

"Alright, Soarynn, your husband just won the election, what was it like to be by his side in such a tense few months?"

Soarynn remembers the months leading up to the election, how stressed Coriolanus had been, how many meetings and interviews he conducted. He won it by a landslide but still, he had been so worried. Soarynn did what she did best, she comforted him, reassured him that he'd win, and did her best to spread her own influence amongst the people of the Capitol.

Since marrying Coriolanus, she's been adored by the Capitol, widely known as the 'Captiol's Darling' due to how many people love her.

"It was a testament to our marriage," she answers, "I vowed to stand by him no matter what, win or lose and I did. To see him do what he does best fulfills me, it fulfills our family."

The interviewer nods, "How did you come to know President Snow?"

Soarynn finds it almost strange to think back to the time when she barely knew Coriolanus, when she worked for him, and worried that she'd lose the children every day.

"I was employed by the Snow family following Livia Snow's death," she tells the woman, "Coriolanus and I got to know each other and the rest is history."

The woman hums, jotting down some notes, "If you don't mind me asking, what was your job under the Snow family? Were you an assistant to President Snow?"

Soarynn smiles, she's forgotten how many people are unaware of how she came to know the people she loves so dearly in her heart. She often wonders what her life would be like if she never applied for the position, if she never got hired, if she never let herself and her walls down around Coriolanus.

She shakes her head, she doesn't mind at all. She sits up straight and proud, knowing that she carries the Snow name and its legacy.

"I was the nanny."

| Part 14. | Final Part |

| tumblr oneshot/drabble |

| taglist: @strawberriicakes @wonderlandbound111 @villiansarehottest @kickmybark @thevoicesinmyprettylittlehead @melodyoflovee |

[slaymitchabernathy]

The Nanny

꧁ Two Months Later ꧂

When Soarynn was six years old, she learned that this world had no place for women aspiring to be anything more than trophies.

She had been at school when she said that she wanted to be a Peacekeeper, a job that she now would never want to do but six-year-old Soarynn Nightingale was infatuated by their uniforms, by the authority they held in the public eye.

Her teacher, Mrs. Knowitall, had been swift to shut down any dreams of her becoming a Peacekeeper and instead encouraged her to think about a beautiful future where she'd be blessed with little ones running around. And Soarynn hadn't been too happy about that, she even brought it up to her father who sadly told her that it was simply the world they lived in. Sure, women could work, they could be like Tigris and open up their own shops and businesses but they'd always be undermined and always have to work twice as hard to achieve the same outcome.

Soarynn despises that ugly truth.

It's sometimes hard for her to believe such a statement, especially when she sees women like Eudora practically running the show, telling Coriolanus what to do and where to go. Without women, the world would cease to function.

But Soarynn isn't just a woman, no, she's a nanny for the most important children in the world and two of them just so happen to be little girls. Little girls who she knows could easily take over the world if they wanted to.

They're certainly giving their riding instructor a run for his money right now.

Christmas morning was a blur of excited shrieks and presents being ripped open. The girls had woken Soarynn up at a crisp five o'clock in the morning and then quickly followed suit with their father who was also dragged out of bed. Soarynn had never seen Coriolanus look so...unprofessional. Dressed in his own pajamas, with tangled curls, and sleepy eyes as his children dragged him downstairs and into one of the many living rooms they had.

Soarynn had been tasked with waking up Caspian and bringing him downstairs to join the rest of the Snow family who were eagerly anticipating her arrival. Once she and Caspian sat down, the girls ripped into all of their presents, gasping and smiling at all the gifts they received from family and friends. Soarynn helped Caspian open his presents, one of which included a new stuffed animal, a teddy bear that he was now obsessed with.

Soarynn and Coriolanus sat on the sofa while watching the children open all of their presents and it had felt so...domestic. Like this could be a new reality for them.

Soarynn and Eudora had made sure to get Coriolanus a few gifts since he was in fact their employer and the President of Panem. But to her surprise, Coriolanus had gotten her a gift as well.

A gold necklace with a rose pendant.

Soarynn hadn't known what to say, she didn't expect a gift from him and certainly not such a token of affection. She had seen the way he looked at her, the way he watched her with the children while they dug through their stockings. It gave her hope but also fear.

Both powerful things to feel and experience.

After reading his little letter, Soarynn and Coriolanus operated on thin ice. Stolen glances, brief unnecessary touches that sent shivers down her spine, words of kindness that reached beneath the surface. Soarynn didn't know what he felt for her but she knew herself well enough to know that she was slowly falling for Coriolanus Snow.

But was he falling for her too?

They hadn't kissed since she had what she could only call a panic attack mixed with a bit of post-traumatic stress from being kidnapped. They had fallen into a familiar rhythm of quick touches, the brushing of hands at the breakfast table, placing a hand on her shoulder when she would get out of the car, a hand on her back when he'd need to get behind her.

Coriolanus Snow was calculated in his touches and it drove Soarynn mad.

She didn't know if she wanted him to stop altogether or pin her against the wall and kiss her silly.

But it was all up to her. Whatever she wanted, he would do and she secretly hated that he had given her all the power and control as to what they could become.

For once, a woman held the power.

"Don't hold the reigns so tightly Miss Snow," the instructor says, nervously running alongside Ceraphina as she and her horse trot along the paddock.

After they had opened all their Christmas gifts and enjoyed a nice breakfast, Soarynn had gotten herself and all the children dressed to go outside for one more surprise. The horse.

The girls had been so excited, jumping up and down, hugging Soarynn, hugging Coriolanus, hugging each other. Caspian didn't seem to be too impressed by the horse but Soarynn had learned that Caspian was a man of few outward emotions. Including happiness.

The girls immediately named their white horse Snowflake, not to anyone's surprise considering that he was white as snow. Snowflake was their new obsession, every day they wanted to go outside to see him. Soarynn made sure that they kept him brushed and fed, teaching them important lessons about caring for an animal as big as Snowflake.

They got lucky with Snowflake because he was so very sweet with all the children, endlessly patient even when they tugged on his ears or ran in front of him. Eudora, a constant voice of reason had been nervous that he might kick one of the children or someone might fall off the saddle and get hurt but Soarynn was always with the children and she felt they were safe.

Coriolanus had hired a riding instructor so that the girls could properly learn how to ride and they were giving their instructor a run for his money.

"I'm not holding them tightly," Ceraphina argues as she bounces on the saddle, tightening her grip on the reigns. Soarynn chuckles and shakes her head, "Ceraphina darling, listen to Mr. Chiron." Ceraphina is so similar to her father, not wanting to be told how to do a single thing even if what they're doing is incorrect.

The only person that Soarynn has seen sternly correct Coriolanus is Eudora Trinket. She's witnessed one too many hand slaps from Eudora whenever Coriolanus would go to grab something.

"I am listening."

Caspian rests his hand on the wooden fence surrounding the stables, "No listen," he mumbles, resting his head on Soarynn's shoulder. She smiles, Caspian hasn't ever been the most outspoken Snow child, but she wonders if he might become one when he's older. In a way, she wishes he could stay this little for the rest of their lives, so sweet and clingy.

Celeste runs behind Ceraphina and Snowflake, her little curls peeking out from under her riding helmet, "It's my turn soon! Right, Mr. Chiron?" Mr. Chiron pales at the thought of having to switch the girls out but he nods either way, "Yes Miss Celeste, it will be your turn soon," he confirms.

The girls have been...struggling to share Snowflake. Well, struggling to take turns riding him. And brushing him, and feeding him. This might have backfired on Soarynn more than she expected.

Oh well, they'll learn eventually.

꧁ ꧂

When they come back inside from their riding lessons, the girls run straight for the kitchen for a snack. Soarynn is feeling quite hungry herself and she knows Caspian always gets peckish right before his nap. So when she walks into the massive kitchen and finds Coriolanus Snow inside, she's shocked, to say the least.

"Daddy! Daddy, we went riding did you see us?"

Coriolanus appears to be eating a block of cheese which leads Soarynn to form a series of questions but she asks none, "I did see you riding," he answers, "I also saw you two fighting over who got to brush Snowflake." The girls don't even try to look guilty and Coriolanus gives them a knowing look, "You know, Snowflake was supposed to teach you how to share, not give you more reasons to fight. If these arguments continue then Snowflake might have to go away."

The girls gasp at the threat and Soarynn suppresses a smile when they immediately begin spitting out their own threats, backfiring on Coriolanus immediately. He holds his hands up in defense, backing into one of the large islands in the middle of the kitchen, "I'm just saying it could happen," he says, almost dropping his cheese.

His eyes dart to Soarynn and she feels caught even though she's doing nothing wrong, "Why the block of cheese?" She finally asks, noting the large bite marks taken out of it. Do they have a mouse problem? Or worse, a rat problem? If so, Eudora will be the first one out of here.

Coriolanus sighs and places the cheese on the counter, "It appears that our entire kitchen staff caught the flu." Soarynn's eyes widen in surprise, they had breakfast this morning so she can't imagine what happened between this morning and right now.

"We ordered in breakfast," he grumbles, "from one of our favorite restaurants but we're stranded for lunch." Soarynn has to hold in a laugh, "You're telling me that you don't know how to cook? At twenty-six years old you can't cook?"

The girls look up at their father expectantly and he scoffs, turning red in the face, "I...I have a country to run," he argues, "and since becoming President, I have always had a highly trained staff ready to cook whatever me or my children might need." Soarynn smirks, tilting her head, "Except for today," she points out.

She's never seen Coriolanus so flustered but it's rather adorable. He's so helpless in the kitchen and she for once, feels like she has the upper hand. He's always so confident, so cocky, and arrogant in everything he does, knowing everything before she knows it herself.

He presses his lips into a thin line, "Yes, except for today," he agrees.

Soarynn looks at the cheese, "And you resorted to eating an entire block of cheese?" Celeste clings to her father's leg, leaning all the way back, "Are you a mouse, Daddy? Eudora has mice and they eat cheese." Coriolanus rests a hand on Celeste's head, "No darling, I'm not a mouse...or a chef," he grumbles the last part.

Soarynn contains her glee as she carefully sets Caspian down on the floor, which earns her a pout of protest but it's soon resolved when Ceraphina offers him her hand to hold, "I can cook," Soarynn says, "it won't be anything compared to what you're used to though."

Coriolanus lets out a sigh of relief, crisis averted, "Thank you. I think a simple sandwich with soup will be satisfactory." Soarynn hums, giving the children a sweet smile, "Why don't you all go find Eudora? I'm sure she'd love your company." The girls scamper out of the kitchen, a more reluctant Caspian in tow, only giving Soarynn and Coriolanus one glance before the swinging door closes behind him.

Soarynn brushes her hair behind her ears, scanning the kitchen to see what tools lie within her reach. She hasn't cooked in a long time but she knows how to cook and that's more than what Coriolanus knows. She walks over to the industrial-sized refrigerator pulling open the heavy doors to see what's inside.

She's met with every type of produce one could need along with all sorts of meats, kinds of milk, and other liquids. They could feed an entire District with all of this food. Soarynn starts grabbing different things, a tomato, some meats, some sauces. She carries it all to one of the large kitchen islands and then begins looking for the bread.

She notices Coriolanus watching her as she walks around the kitchen but she doesn't comment on it. She's a woman on a mission. She finds the bread tucked away in one of the cupboards along with several cans of different types of soups. The Capitol is known for having a wide variety of everything and their soups are superb. She grabs the lamb stew one, knowing how much the girls like it.

Once she's gathered all her ingredients, Soarynn starts opening every drawer in the kitchen in search of some cutlery, "You wouldn't happen to know where they store the knives would you?" She asks while crouching down to open another cabinet. She hears Coriolanus shuffling around the kitchen, she wonders if he's ever actually been in here before.

"Oh never mind," she says, settling her sights on an impressive set of knives, "I found them." Soarynn grabs the entire case of kitchen knives, carefully setting it down and opening it. Some of these knives look like they could cut an arm off, let alone a tomato but she supposes that it's better than a butter knife. Soarynn watches Coriolanus awkwardly stand on the other side of the counter, unsure of what to do for once. "Could you please find me an apron?" She asks sweetly, enjoying the way his throat bobs.

Coriolanus nods, walking over to what must be the large walk-in pantry and he disappears from her view. Soarynn uses this time to lay out all her ingredients and figure out how to turn on the stove. It's a bit tricky with so many knobs but she can only imagine how many people the kitchen staff feed on a daily basis. She finally hears the familiar click and sees a small flame ignite. She opens the cabinet below the stove and finds tons of pots and pans, all ranging from small to large.

Soarynn grabs a medium-sized pot and sets it on the stove burner. "I think this one might fit you." She turns around at that deep voice she's grown so used to and is pleased to see that Coriolanus managed to find an apron for her. She wouldn't want to stain her clothes. She gingerly takes it from his hands and offers him a smile, "Thank you." He nods, his blue eyes dart from her face to her neck and she instinctively reaches up to touch the necklace he gifted her.

It really is a beautiful piece of jewelry and she's found herself reaching for it more than usual. "Help me put it on?" She asks, her voice a little bit shaky. She hasn't done anything with Coriolanus since that terrible night but it's been long enough and Soarynn is starting to go a bit feral if she's being honest. The lack of his touch has driven her to a breaking point and his eating a block of cheese has sent her over the edge.

Coriolanus grunts, "Of course."

It's a terribly intimate moment between them, every move loaded with tension. His hand brushing her hair away from her neck, Soarynn tilting her head back while he slips the apron over her head, his hands resting on her back before he begins to tie the apron.

"All done," he says softly.

Soarynn draws in a shaky breath and slowly turns around to face Coriolanus which is a daunting task where she's concerned. He's already looking down at her, making her feel as if maybe this isn't a one-sided thing, something she's been romanticizing in her head the entire time.

"All done," she repeats, her voice barely a whisper.

His eyes flit down to her lips for a second and Soarynn rests her hands on his broad shoulders, apron the soup long forgotten. It all happens so quickly after that, after her touch ignites something within him that he's been holding back.

Coriolanus crashes his lips against hers and Soarynn sighs into the kiss. He rests his hands on her waist, wrapping his long fingers around it before he picks her up. Soarynn squeals at his display of strength, he's always looked so strong but he feels strong too. He effortlessly carries her over to the island, his lips never leaving hers and Soarynn wraps her legs around his torso for more support.

It's a desperate, primal moment shared between the two of them.

Coriolanus gently sets her down on the island, his hands never leaving her body while he continues to kiss her, their lips moving in a synchronized pattern. They've both been waiting for this it seems.

Soarynn's hands slide up his neck and into his hair, feeling how soft his curls are. She's probably going to ruin how he styled it but neither of them cares in the moment. He slides his hands down her back, resting them on the smallest part of her waist before he gently leans her backward, making her lie down on the cool marble counter. With Coriolanus looming over her, it almost feels like they're doing this in the bedroom, doing this properly. Soarynn lets out a soft moan when his teeth nip at her bottom lip and she slides a hand down his hand and under his shirt, gently grazing his skin with her nails.

Coriolanus groans at the sensation, resting one of his large hands right by her face for stability while the other remains on her waist.

She can feel his fingers slipping under her shirt and she wonders which direction they'll go. Up or down?

Just as she's about to find out, Soarynn hears the small patter of little feet approaching the kitchen. She gasps and her eyes fly open, "Soarynn we're hungry!"

The two of them are scrambling off of the counter and each other in seconds, fussing with their appearances and doing their very best not to look guilty.

They settle down just as the kitchen door swings open and Ceraphina steps inside, hands on her hips, "And Caspian doesn't want tomatoes on his sandwich." Soarynn nods, brushing her hair behind her ears, "I know," she replies, giving Ceraphina a tight-lipped smile. Ceraphina looks at her ruffled appearance and at her father who's standing very close to Soarynn, too close for this to be considered professional.

"It's hot in here," she finally says.

Coriolanus clears his throat, pulling at the collar of his shirt, "It is? We didn't notice darling, perhaps you should go back to playing with your brother and sister." Ceraphina narrows her eyes at his words and Soarynn silently waits for her to put the pieces together. Ceraphina is as smart as Coriolanus, even if he won't admit it.

"Right," is all she says before turning on her heel, giving the adults one last look as the door swings shut behind her.

Both Soarynn and Coriolanus let out a sigh of relief. "That was close," he mumbles, carding a hand through his now tussled curls. Soarynn sighs, "Too close. We can't...we can't do that again," she tells him softly. Coriolanus furrows his eyebrows, stepping towards her until they're toe-to-toe, "Why not? Did I hurt you again? Did I pres-"

"You never hurt me the first time," she tells him, putting an end to any negative thoughts he might be harboring, "I just...I don't want the children to see us like that. We're adults and we must act like it even if we have our own wants and needs."

Coriolanus frowns, bringing up a hand to cup her face. Soarynn melts into his touch, feeling as if everything will now be taken care of, "I don't like sneaking around," he admits, his eyes flickering with boyish charm, "even though I've seen how it riles you up." Soarynn scoffs, shoving his hand away after that added comment, "Nothing riles me up," she argues.

Coriolanus tilts his head, that smirk quickly growing on his lips, "No? So all these stolen glances and quick touches haven't affected you whatsoever?"

Is she that obvious?

Soarynn shakes her head, pushing a face of indifference to the surface, "Not at all," she lies. Coriolanus scoffs a laugh and leans against the countertop, "You're a terrible liar Soarynn," he tells her, arrogance and cockiness in his tone, "you want me as bad as I want you."

Soarynn rolls her eyes and turns her attention back to the lunch she should've been making this entire time, "Keep telling yourself that," she replies. When a hand slides across her stomach, pulling her against him, "You know, I have a certain hatred for people who lie to me," he whispers in her ear, his voice deep and husky, shooting straight to her core.

Soarynn swallows, her hands shaking no matter how hard she tries to steady them, "Well I'm telling the truth," she lies, trying to pry his arm off of her. It's futile, he's much stronger than her, not to mention bigger than her. His teeth nip at her ear and Soarynn's eyes nearly roll back, "We...we need to remain civil," she manages to get out, bracing herself against the counter, "we're no good to each other if we can't even be in the same room without this happening."

"What's wrong with this?"

Soarynn scoffs, throwing her entire body weight back into him, earning her a shout of surprise as Coriolanus falls back onto the floor, his presence disappearing from behind her, "It's unprofessional," she states turning to look down at him on the floor as he glares up at her. "We're acting like school children," she continues, watching Coriolanus dust himself off, "we're both at work right now and we're acting very unprofessional. If you want to do things like this, then you'll have to make time for it outside of work."

A puzzled look crosses his face, Soarynn doubts he's ever been told what to do by a woman, not even Livia. He's never had to try.

"Outside of work?" He repeats, his voice less cocky and more...willing to learn. Soarynn hums, wiping her hands on her apron and reaching out to help him up, "Yes. We should actually get to know each other outside of work. If we never leave this house then we'll never know if this is real or if we're simply attracted to one another due to close proximity."

When she attended the Academy, Soarynn learned the hard way when it came to being forced to share the same classes with the same boys. Boys who would've never been remotely attractive to her became knights in shining armor after a few months all because they were the only options. It never ended well.

Coriolanus takes her hand, wrapping his fingers around her wrist and pulling her down with him. Soarynn yelps as she falls down into his lap, completely caught off guard. His hands rest on her hips and this feels very...flirtatious. Soarynn squirms in his hold but Coriolanus is stronger than her and more determined. He's very competitive, "So you want me to take you out on a date then?"

Soarynn pales at the thought of being publically seen with Coriolanus, just the two of them. It's bound to spark up rumors and she'd be on her own to deal with them. "I...I don't think that would be a good idea," she whispers. Coriolanus furrows his eyebrows and now that she's so close to him she can see how long his eyelashes are.

Why are men always blessed with long luscious lashes?

"Why not?"

Soarynn shrugs, "People would see us, they'd make up rumors about me and how I'm sleeping with you to get promoted or something like that. People love to talk about you but you're more important than I am, they'd drag my family name through the mud." Soarynn isn't a very defensive person but when it comes to her family name, she doesn't play around. She's the last Nightingale alive and she intends on making her family lineage proud.

He frowns but still looks so very handsome even when in distress, "But you're not," he says softly, his fingers dragging up and down her side, "in fact, you're making it very difficult for me to show just how much I want you." They both chuckle but the truth still lies between them. Soarynn rests a hand on his cheek, "I'm a woman," she tells him, "I'll never be equal to a man and I'll certainly never compare to a man like you. They'll write me off the second they see us together."

She can see the conflict in his eyes, how upset her words make him even though she's right, she'll always be seen as below him in the eyes of men. "I've been lusted after before," she reminds him, thinking back to Festus and District Four, "how am I to believe that you don't wish for a more successful outcome?"

Coriolanus is quick to shake his head and he leans forward, shifting her weight in his lap, "If I wanted a quick fuck then don't you think I'd already take what I wanted?" His words are crass but they do strike a chord within Soarynn, "I would never force a woman to be with me," he tells her, "but I have no shortage of admirers in the Capitol now that Livia is gone. If it's a display of affection that you want, then you shall have it."

Soarynn doesn't know what that means and she's a little nervous to find out. She's never been one for grand gestures, not when she already has everything she needs.

But when she looks into his eyes, she has hope that there might be something left in this world that is not yet in her possession.

She'll just have to wait and see.

꧁ ꧂

꧁ Five Days Later ꧂

"How about this one?"

Soarynn looks over her shoulder at the dress Ceraphina and Celeste are struggling to hold up, it's a ballgown and it's very big. She shakes her head, "I don't think so." Both girls drop the dress with a relieved sigh, "It would make you look like a princess," Celeste offers, swaying back and forth on her heels. Soarynn shakes her head again, this time offering Celeste a sweet smile to soften the blow, "We're going to dinner darling so it'll have to be something less...big."

Soarynn is going on a date tonight.

With Coriolanus Snow.

After their little moment in the kitchen, they had collected themselves and Soarynn made lunch for the family, thoughts of Coriolanus Snow's touch lingering in the back of her mind the entire time.

The next day she had received another one of his letters, formally asking if she would have dinner with him. Soarynn had expected a lot of things from Coriolanus but she hadn't expected him to actually take her out on a proper, public date.

She had debated telling the girls but they spent every waking minute with each other and Coriolanus said it was fine. The girls nearly lost their minds.

Wedding bells were already playing in their heads, she could see it clear as day and that worried her. Suppose she and Coriolanus found out that they truly have nothing in common, then what?

She didn't want to deal with her broken heart, let alone two more belonging to very little girls who happened to be related to said heartbreaker.

It's so fucking complicated.

"Maybe something blue," she suggests and the girls pick themselves off of the floor and run back into her closet. She turns her attention back to the mirror, two sets of eyes staring into the reflection, "Are you getting sleepy?" She asks Caspian, pressing a kiss to the top of his head. Caspian had requested to sit in her lap while she did her makeup and she could hardly deny him of such a thing. Not when she's going to miss bedtime with the children.

Missing bedtime goes against everything Soarynn stands for. It's a routine that she knows like the back of her hand. She knows what soap to use in the bath, what pajamas the girls like, and what songs Caspian likes to hear. To leave them abandoned breaks her heart. Even though Eudora will be taking over for tonight, she still feels terribly guilty.

"Lenny," Caspian says with a pout. Lenny is currently being washed because someone spilled orange juice on him this morning during breakfast. It caused quite the commotion. Never mind the fact that Caspian has about one million other stuffed animals to choose from. And his beloved teddy bear, which he got from Christmas, has already lost its new appeal.

"Lenny will join you after bathtime," Soarynn promises, dabbing a bit more blush onto her cheeks. She doesn't want to look like she's trying too hard, not when she literally sees Coriolanus every single day. But it's important to put forth effort.

Soarynn takes in her appearance, checking for any flaws that she might be able to fix. She went light with her makeup today, remembering how Coriolanus had commented on her freckles when she was barefaced. "We found one!" She turns her attention back to the girls who drag out another dress, this one is light blue and looks much more appropriate for tonight than the other one.

"Oh it's perfect darlings," she tells them, reaching out to feel the silky fabric between her fingers. The girls smile proudly at their accomplishment, "It matches your eyes," Ceraphina tells her. It does indeed match Soarynn's eye color, blue and gray, a cloudy blue.

"Are you and Daddy gonna get married?" Soarynn's eyes double in size from that question, "I don't think he's thought that far ahead darling," Soarynn replies, setting down her makeup brush, "neither have I for that matter."

Soarynn knows how it goes in their society, a man has to gift his last name to a woman, simple as that. Soarynn can love Coriolanus all she wants, but unless he gifts her his last name, she's nothing, no one. Just the nanny.

꧁ ꧂

Soarynn and the girls make their way towards the grand staircase, Caspian hugged to her hip like always, his head nuzzled under her chin. "Will you wake us up when you come back?" Celeste asks, skipping alongside Soarynn who shakes her head, "I can tell you all about it in the morning," she promises. "And you must be good for Eudora, it's very gracious of her to look after you all tonight so your father and I can go have dinner."

Both girls smile sweetly at Soarynn, too sweetly in her opinion, "We will be angels," Ceraphina promises which only makes Soarynn doubt them even more. "I'll hold you to that," Soarynn says, crouching down and extending her pinky. Both girls latch their tiny pinkies around hers and they all nod, "Pinky promise."

Soarynn feels a little better now that they pinky promised but only time will tell. They slowly walk down the stairs, or well, Soarynn slowly walks down the stairs while the girls dart down the stairs to greet Eudora who's standing in the foyer, binder in hand. "Eudora! Eudora we get to have dinner together!" Eudora raises her perfectly groomed eyebrows and drums her fingers against her binder, "Yes we do, and I expect there to be no lapses in our schedule tonight girls, we must stay on schedule."

Ceraphina tilts her head, holding her thumb and index finger about an inch apart, "How about this much off schedule?" Eudora visibly pales at the thought of them going off schedule and Soarynn is quick to intervene, "Everything will go smoothly tonight," she says, more to the girls than to Eudora. "And thank you Eudora," she adds, giving the older woman a kind smile, "I truly do appreciate it."

Eudora waves her off, resting a hand on Ceraphina's head, "It's no trouble at all dear, you deserve a night out and goodness knows that Coriolanus needs to put himself back out there."

Both girls nod at her statement, "Daddy needs to fall in love again," Celeste says matter-of-factly. Soarynn feels more nerves bubbling to the surface from that statement, if Coriolanus never loved Livia, then is he even capable of loving another woman?

She'll have to find out tonight.

Eudora hums, "He certainly needs to stop locking himself away in that study." Soarynn sets Caspian down on the floor, not liking where this conversation is going, "Yes, well, I'd better go down to his study so we can leave."

Caspian tugs on Soarynn's dress, "Momma stay."

Soarynn might have to cancel on this date.

She crouches down which is quite difficult in this dress but well worth it for Caspian who rests a hand on Soarynn's cheek, "I'll come back Cas," she promises, "I always come back."

He doesn't look too convinced.

"When I come back I can sing you as many songs as you want."

That seems to do the trick.

Caspian gives her a determined nod, "Okay." Soarynn smiles taking his small hand in hers and pressing a kiss to it, "Okay then. You can be my big boy until then." It truly does break her heart to say goodbye to the children, even though she's coming back. When you spend every waking moment with someone, parting is such sweet sorrow.

Eudora holds out her hand to Caspian who reluctantly takes it, pouting up at Soarynn who's cursing Coriolanus Snow for making such sweet children who make it so hard to say goodbye. "Actually dear," Eudora starts, "Coriolanus will meet you there. He got caught up in a meeting but he sent a car for you."

Soarynn wonders if she should feel upset.

It's not like she's been stood up but effort matters to her and Coriolanus promised in his letter that he'd be done with work in time for them to leave together.

She'll have to chew him out about that later. For now, she presses a smile onto her lips and hums, "Well I better get going then. I'll see you all tomorrow morning my loves." She gives each child one more hug goodbye, trying to ignore the oh-so-hopeful faces the girls give her. She knows they need a mother, but can she be one?

꧁ ꧂

The drive to the restaurant might be the most nerve-wracking thing Soarynn has ever experienced.

She doesn't even know where they're going, Coriolanus had only told her to dress nice and that he'd take care of the rest. And as a slight control freak, Soarynn finds it very hard to just trust him blindly. She nervously drums her fingers against the tinted windows, watching the dark Capitol streets blur by. She didn't realize how little she left the Mansion until now. How long has it been since she's had a night out on the town?

At least she's allowed to take the children out on little adventures again. Her injuries finally faded and she was given permission to take the Snow children to their favorite places such as the zoo, the park, and the planetarium.

They were all going a little stir crazy so it was nice to be out and about again.

Soarynn watches the driver turn onto one of the busiest streets in the city, a street known for its expensive dining options. She can see a small crowd outside of one of the restaurants and secretly prays that it's not the one they're eating at tonight.

The car comes to a slow stop in front of the crowded restaurant.

Of course, it does, she thinks to herself.

The driver gets out but instead of opening the door for her, he disappears into the restaurant, leaving Soarynn alone and confused. Was she supposed to get out herself? Was this the wrong place?

More people start to gather around the car, making her more and more anxious although none of them attempt to look inside the car windows, instead, they crane their necks to get a glance of who's inside the restaurant.

Soarynn picks at her cuticles, a nasty habit she's tried to drop many times but it always flares back up in moments like this. A moment later, she hears many gasps, shouts, and even cheers as the crowd thickens near the restaurant doors. She watches people begin to part down the middle for two Peacekeepers instructing people to stand back. The crowd to their credit, do as they're told but are unable to withhold their excitement when Coriolanus Snow steps out into the cold winter night.

Soarynn has to force her jaw to stay shut as he strides toward the car, not paying any mind to his loyal citizens calling out his name in an adoring fashion. Soarynn worries her bottom lip between her teeth when he goes to open the car door. Is he really doing this? Is she really doing this?

The car door opens and she's not given a second to think about anything else but him and how handsome he looks as he gazes down at her. Soarynn feels her lips curl into a smile when he holds out his hand to her and she gladly takes it, gracefully stepping out of the car.

Pandemonium ensues.

People are clamoring to get a look at the woman on Coriolanus Snow's arm. Cameras are flashing, and people are shoving and yelling while Coriolanus and Soarynn make their way into the restaurant. Soarynn curls further into him when one photographer tries to get his camera right in her face. She watches one of the Peacekeepers grab the camera and escort the man off the premises.

The second they're safely inside the restaurant, the doors close behind them and it's so wonderfully quiet, the soft piano music and chatter are gladly welcomed by Soarynn who's never experienced something like that before, not even with the children.

A chipper-looking hostess gives them both a gracious smile and nods for them to follow her, "Your private room is right this way." Soarynn didn't think they'd be eating privately but it made sense considering how difficult it was to walk through the front doors.

Soarynn can't help but stare up at Coriolanus as they follow the hostess, he looks so handsome, so in charge. And he smells so good, so manly. It's like she doesn't even have to think about anything because he'll make sure everything is taken care of for her. She's so infatuated by his presence that she doesn't even realize that they've arrived at their private room until he finally looks down at her, a smile on his lips, cocky like always, "Like what you see?"

Soarynn feels so parched all of a sudden, "I'm thirsty."

Coriolanus chuckles, unwrapping his arm from her waist, "Well we have every drink you could think of at the bar."

Soarynn finally looks around the large room that will be theirs tonight and she's very impressed. Not only does it have a large dining table, but it also has a private bar, sitting area, and a billiard table as well.

He's outdone himself tonight but Soarynn plans on keeping him on his toes.

"I thought you'd be coming with me," she says, following him to the bar. Coriolanus gives her a guilty look from over his shoulder, stopping once they reach the bar where a bartender is already preparing a drink. "I did too," he admits, scratching the back of his neck, "but my meetings ran longer than expected and then there was a shipping issue in District Sev-"

"I understand," Soarynn cuts him off, leaning against the bar, "you have priorities, things that come first."

Coriolanus frowns, "You say that like you aren't a priority to me." Soarynn tilts her head, offering him a sweet smile, "Am I? I haven't heard you tell me otherwise. As far as I know, I'm just a girl you had driven here, tossed into your lap really. Goodness knows what everyone's saying about us."

She can see the panic in his eyes at the realization that Soarynn Nightingale does not like being an afterthought. Coriolanus reaches out and takes her hand, intertwining his long fingers with hers, "Darling," he starts and Soarynn can feel her heart beat a little faster at the petname, "what people choose to say about us is their business, not ours. And you know that your comfort and safety is a priority to me, I wanted to take the safest route possible."

Soarynn stares down at their intertwined hands, he touches her so casually while in the presence of an employee, as if this bartender doesn't even exist. She wonders if the staff are required to sign agreements to honor his privacy. "But am I a priority?" She asks, her blue-gray eyes finally staring into his deep blue ones, "Am I of value to you? Not my safety nor my comfort but my own person. Or did you invite me to dinner out of pity?"

His eyes reflect bewilderment mixed with something Soarynn could only consider desire, "I invited you to have dinner with me tonight because I intend on getting to know the real you Soarynn," he tells her, sliding his hand up her arm until it rests on her bare shoulder. In hindsight, wearing a strapless dress maybe wasn't the best choice but the girls had already dragged out half of her closet and the shade of blue truly compliments her eyes.

"And when this is over?" She whispers, "When we go back home and settle back into our routine then what?"

He gently pulls her towards him until they're toe-to-toe, something Soarynn is all too familiar with at this point when it comes to Coriolanus who seems to crave physical touch. A genuine smile graces his lips, no cockiness or arrogance to be found this time as he leans down until his lips hover above hers.

"Then I ask you for a second date."

꧁ ꧂

Soarynn never knew she liked wine so much until she drank about three glasses of it.

It's not like she even likes the taste of it as much as she likes how it makes her feel. Relaxed, at ease, silencing the buzzing noise in her head. It takes away the pressure of having a date with the President of Panem.

Tonight has truly surprised her. From the conversations to the food, Coriolanus Snow hasn't disappointed. After their hushed conversation at the bar, they settled in the sitting area for a while where they talked about the children, musing about how they'd turn out when they grew older. Coriolanus opened up about his own childhood, how his father was always stern and authoritative, giving his son no grace for any situation. His mother had tragically passed away while giving birth to his little sister who also passed away during the birth.

Soarynn had seen his eyes mist over with tears only for a second before he swiftly blinked them away and continued on about how he was trying to do better by his own children even though he'd suffered a similar fate when his own wife died. He spoke of Soarynn's family in high regard, recalling how welcoming the Nightingales were and how beautiful her mother was.

Soarynn found herself asking more and more questions about her own mother, desperate to learn more about what she was like before she also died during childbirth.

The two then bitterly discussed how similar their childhoods were when it came to their mothers, the only difference being that Soarynn survived the birth and carried the guilt with her every day.

Once the courses started being served, they made their way to the dining table where Soarynn feasted on the finest foods, all perfectly crafted to her liking. She and Coriolanus discussed more light-hearted topics such as attending the Academy, the different social circles they ran in, and how interesting it was that after all these years, they somehow managed to find each other.

An invisible string it seemed led them to this very moment.

Throughout dinner, Soarynn downed two more glasses of wine and became another version of herself, less formal and more of a giggling mess. Every single thing he said made her laugh which meant that every single thing he'd say was to make her laugh.

Soarynn had never seen this side of him before, so genuinely caring and effortlessly charming. She'd never seen this side of herself either, drunk and throwing societal norms out the window.

After dessert, Coriolanus suggested a dance and Soarynn could hardly decline although she did take her shoes off. It had felt so terribly intimate dancing with him which was really just the two of them swaying from side to side, his hands on her hips while she rested her cheek on his chest. It felt so good to be held that tenderly, with that much care and protection.

After the death of her father, Soarynn had worried about who in this world would protect her now. She'd almost grown paranoid of being taken advantage of. But in the arms of Coriolanus Snow, she felt safe and sound.

꧁ ꧂

It's past midnight when they get back from dinner.

Soarynn can't stop giggling while they stumble up the stairs, or well, while she stumbles up the stairs. Coriolanus seems to have a high alcohol tolerance whereas Soarynn has only really had champagne or posca.

Coriolanus grins down at her as she clings to his arm for support, "Remind me to never order you wine again." Soarynn giggles again, her foot catches on another step almost taking them both down, "I'm drunk," she whispers, resting one hand on the railing. Coriolanus chuckles and wraps his arm around her waist, "Yes you are darling."

She beams at the petname, her favorite thing to be called now that he's said it about a million times tonight. "What...what should I call you then?" She asks, her voice slightly slurred. They finally reach the top of the stairs and he gives her a curious and amused look, "Call me? I'd assume my name." Soarynn shakes her head and reaches up to cup his face with her hand, something she'd never do so brazenly if she were sober.

Drunk actions are often sober ideas.

"No," she says, "like a nickname, a...a petname. Something only for me." Once he understands her question he grins, sliding his hand up her back, "Only for you hmm?" When did his voice get so deep?

Soarynn would be lying to herself if she said she wasn't a little bit turned on by his deep voice which only gets deeper when he drinks apparently. She still nods though, determined to find the perfect name for him that can only belong to her, "Mhm."

Coriolanus uses his other hand to brush some of her hair out from her face, his fingers feel so hot against her skin, "Well I don't know darling, I think it's only fair that you come up with one for me if I came up with one for you." Soarynn pouts the same way Caspian does, why must he be so unfair? Coriolanus laughs at her pouting and is quick to remedy it by finally pressing a kiss to her lips.

Soarynn gasps and happily returns it, bringing her other hand to his curls. Coriolanus remained on his best behavior tonight despite the clear evidence that he wanted to press her against the nearest surface and kiss her silly. But it seems that all rules have officially been tossed out of the window and Soarynn doesn't mind in the slightest.

She softly moans when his hand gently wraps around her neck, applying a slight pressure that makes her even more lightheaded than she already is thanks to the wine. He uses this as an opportunity to slip his tongue into her mouth, a new sensation that Soarynn welcomes wholeheartedly.

Her mind is running at a million miles a minute now that his hands are on her and Soarynn can only think of the next logical move which is why she goes for his belt. Coriolanus immediately pulls away from the kiss, earning him a whine from Soarynn while he softly chuckles, "You're drunk," he tells her, letting go of her neck so he can cradle her head in his large hand, "which means I won't touch you like that."

He's such a fucking gentleman until she doesn't want him to be.

"Please," she says, whine in her tone but she's so past caring, "it can be quick and I'll be quiet." Coriolanus laughs, pressing a soft kiss to her forehead, "No you won't." Soarynn grumbles a few choice words as he wraps his arms around her in a loving embrace, resting his chin on the top of her head, "You won't be quiet and you won't even remember how good I'd make you feel," he continues, doing nothing to help the ache in her core, "and I just can't have that darling."

Soarynn wants to bite him but she doesn't.

They stay like that for a while, engulfed in each other's arms and scents, "You smell like roses," she mumbles, nuzzling her nose against his jacket. Coriolanus draws different shapes on her bareback, leaving goosebumps wherever his fingers go, "You smell like vanilla. Since the day you walked into my study, it's always been vanilla."

Soarynn smiles even though he can't see her face, "Can I see the greenhouse? Like, the inside of it?" She pulls away enough so that she can properly look up at him, "Now?" He asks, sounding a bit doubtful of her motor skills. Soarynn rolls her eyes, something she would've never done a few months ago before all of this fell into place, "Another day," she decides, "I heard you have the prettiest roses."

He nods, holding her a bit tighter, "I like having pretty things."

Soarynn blushes, she's never been ugly, but she's often worried about people not caring about what lies below her surface. Coriolanus it seems, is all too familiar with that fear. "It's a date then," she decides, pressing a soft kiss to his lips. It catches him by surprise, her initiating the kiss instead of him and he's quick to capture her lips in another passionate kiss.

Soarynn knows it's late, that she's going to wake up with a pounding headache and three children wanting to know about everything that happened tonight but she doesn't mind.

Because right now, wrapped in Coriolanus Snow's arms, she has all the time in the world.

| Part. 9 |

| tumblr oneshot/drabble |

{ Part 10. }

꧁| tag list: @lovelylove268 @strawberriicakes @kickmybark @iswearicanfixhim @wonderlandbound111 @melodyoflovee @thevoicesinmyprettylittlehead|꧂

[slaymitchabernathy]

The Nanny

Soarynn's heart is pounding.

She wonders if it's possible to die from stress. She might die anyway from the looks of it.

She keeps a tight hold of Ceraphina's hand as they're led down the hallway and she's kicking herself for being so stupid, so naive to believe these men in the first place. She should've noticed their accents, the missing tooth, the...the blood on their boots. Soarynn swallows, have they killed people already? Did they kill the two Peacekeepers standing guard outside of their suites? Were they the ones knocking on her doors?

Soarynn wonders what will happen next, wonders where Coriolanus and Eudora are. She wonders if the Mayor knows what's happening, how many people have been planning this, and if she and the children will make it out alive.

She knows one thing for certain: she would rather die than let these evil men hurt the children.

"Soarynn, I want Daddy," Celeste pouts from behind her. Soarynn pushes down any nerves that might be obvious and attempts to give Celeste a reassuring smile from over her shoulder, "We'll see him soon darling."

"Stop talking," one of the men snaps, shooting her a dirty look. Soarynn scowls but keeps her mouth shut. These men clearly weren't above putting a gun to Caspian's head so she knows they'll have no problem leaving her dead body in the hall for someone to find.

"Momma," Caspian mumbles resting his head on her shoulder. Soarynn can only give him a comforting kiss on the head while they keep walking, towards two doors from the looks of it. Soarynn wonders if anyone outside the Resort knows what's going on. Have the proper authorities been alerted? Is Coriolanus wondering where they are? Is she going to die?

They come to a stop in front of the doors and the man waves his gun at Soarynn and the children, "Backs against the wall," he orders. Soarynn holds her head up high while pressing her back against the wall, instructing the girls to do the same. The other man, the other Rebel, cracks the two doors open, having some sort of conversation with someone on the other side. Soarynn can smell the ocean wafting in, those doors lead outside.

He pushes the doors open to reveal a rugged-looking man, dressed in boots, a heavy coat, and an eye patch. He literally looks like a pirate so it's no surprise that he's in on this attack. Soarynn notices the gun holstered in his belt, it seems everyone in Four owns a firearm today. He slowly walks down the line of hostages, sizing each of them up.

"Never thought we'd get all three," he muses, stopping when he reaches Soarynn and Caspian. He reaches out to grab her chin and Soarynn jerks away from his hold, "But you are a lucky catch," he says with a chuckle, "didn't think he'd bring his whore with him as well." Soarynn glares daggers at the man who has no problem insulting her or her character, "I am not a whore and if I were you, I'd let us go before the authorities arrive and stop this attack."

All three men break into laughter as if she just told the funniest joke they've ever heard, causing her stomach to twist into knots, "No wonder he keeps you around, I wonder what you feel like from behind, or better yet, tied up with nowhere to go."

Soarynn could cry right now. Will this be how she goes? Defiled in front of the children and then shot?

"You'll never get the chance to find out," she fires back, "whatever you want, he won't give you."

The one-eyed man sneers and shakes his head, waving his finger in the air, "Oh, he'll give us what we want, as long as we have his children, we've got him in the palm of our hand. It's time Coriolanus Snow learns a lesson from profiting off of other people's pain."

Soarynn isn't given time to respond when the doors fly open, revealing even more men, all armed to the teeth. "We've gotta go Captain," one of them says, glancing over his shoulder, "it's getting messy out there." Soarynn's eyes widen when she hears the sound of gunshots in the distance. She hopes no one is seriously hurt or even worse...dead.

The Captian grunts and grabs her by the arm and drags her towards the doors, "Let's go, pretty girl." Soarynn whimpers when his grip tightens and she desperately looks back at the girls who are being pushed by the other two men, "Please don't hurt them," she begs, trying to break free, "please, they'll listen, they'll listen I promise. We'll do exactly as you say."

They're walking in the sand now, and the wind is starting to pick up, thunderclouds rolling in from the distance. Soarynn can hear more shouting and gunfire but her focus is solely on the girls who are wide-eyed with fear, holding each other's hands as they walk along the beach with their captors.

"Shut your mouth," the Captain orders, yanking her towards him. Soarynn yelps, nearly tripping in her heels with the sand making it more difficult to walk. She spots a boat floating near the shore, they must've come all the way from the village to get here.

They can not get into that boat.

Soarynn digs her feet into the sand, kicking the Captain's leg for good measure. He looks back at her, his eyes filled with anger and hatred and he uses his other hand to grab his gun, slapping her across the face with the weapon in an instant. Soarynn cries out in pain, momentarily blinded by it as she falls back onto the sand, Caspian almost tumbling from her hold.

"Soarynn!" Ceraphina cries, running over to her, "Soarynn are you okay?"

Tears burn in Soarynn's eyes, both from the pain and the fear. Celeste runs over to her as well, bending down to wipe some sand off of her dress, "Do you need a bandaid?"

Soarynn sniffles, she has to keep it together.

"What she needs to do is keep her fucking mouth shut unless she needs another reminder," the Captain says, his gun trained on Soarynn. She takes in a shaky breath, the wind causing her hair to whip across her face, "You're going to die for that," she tells him.

He laughs, kicking sand in her face for good measure, "I don't plan on dying tonight, not until I get what I want."

One of the men who was pretending to be a Peacekeeper perks up at those words, casting a glare in the Captain's direction, "You mean what we want," he corrects, gesturing at Soarynn and the children with his own gun, "we aren't risking our lives for you."

The Captain rolls his eyes, "Yeah, yeah, what we want, that's what I meant. Don't get so paranoid Marvin, just get them up and take them to the boat yeah?"

Marvin frowns but nods, bending down to grab Soarynn's arm and lift her up. She groans from the pain but allows him to lift her from the sand, trying to wipe off the sand but it's no use at this point. She must look like a mess. "Start walking to the boat," Marvin orders, pressing his gun into her back. Soarynn gasps at the feeling but does as she's told, nodding at the girls to do the same. "I don't want to get my shoes wet," Ceraphina mumbles, trudging along the now-wet sand.

Marvin scoffs and gives her a push, causing Ceraphina to glare up at him, her gaze sharp like her father's, "Don't push me." Soarynn doesn't know if she should be amazed or terrified by Ceraphina's confidence in this life-or-death scenario. But Marvin doesn't seem deterred by the five-year-old's attitude.

The water begins to lap at their feet and Soarynn has a harder time walking correctly with her heels constantly sinking in the wet sand. Marvin pushes the gun against her even harder, "Walk better or take the fucking shoes off." Soarynn almost rolls her eyes but stops herself, now is not the time to have an attitude. With a heavy heart, she steps out of her heels and onto the sand barefoot.

The boat isn't that far from the shore but the waves are choppy and she doesn't even know if there's a current, "You want us to swim there?" She asks, giving him an incredulous look. Marvin scoffs, rolling his own eyes, "Yeah, I didn't think women in the Capitol were dumb and spoiled."

Soarynn chooses to ignore his jabs and gestures towards the girls who are always halfway in the water by now, "I have to help them, they could drown or get swept away."

"They'll be fine."

"If they drown then all of this will have been for nothing," she pushes, turning around to face him. Marvin has a somewhat nice-looking face, he might even be considered handsome if it weren't for his habit of kidnapping people. She can see him weighing out his options for a moment and then he sighs, tucking away his gun, "I'll carry them, but if you try to run, I'm shooting you then the kid," he points at Caspian and Soarynn presses her lips into a thin line, she wasn't planning on trying to escape but she certainly isn't now.

"Fine," she decides. She looks down at the girls who look terrified as the waves crash against them, "I need you girls to behave okay? We're going to get on that boat," she points at the boat rocking against the waves. Celeste looks over at the boat and then back up at Soarynn, "I want Daddy."

I do too, Soarynn thinks to herself.

"We'll see him soon," Soarynn promises, hoping she can keep her word, "let's go on the boat first okay?" Neither of the girls looks too convinced but they slowly nod and Soarynn watches Marvin grab Ceraphina first, throwing her over his shoulder like a sack of flour. She frowns at his method of handling the children but he waves her off, "Start swimming," he says, pushing her towards the boat.

He picks up Celeste next and she lets out a sound of surprise when she's also tossed over his shoulder, her shoes nearly kicking him in the face. Soarynn says a quick prayer to her father to keep the girls safe before she turns back towards the boat and begins wading towards it. "Cold," Caspian says, the water getting closer to both of their necks. Soarynn's teeth are chattering and her footing on the ocean floor is slowly disappearing, "It's...it's okay Caspian," she manages to get out, "we're almost there."

Once the floor is gone, she's swimming, or well, trying her best to swim. Soarynn's main focus is keeping Caspian's head above water and he's doing a good job at it himself, using his hands to push himself up. It's hard swimming with one hand and a child in the other but she's getting closer to the small boat. She finally notices the two men sitting in the boat and one of them throws a rope in her direction. She doesn't hesitate to grab it, letting them pull her in.

The other man grabs Caspian and Soarynn's heart drops for a second but the man holding the rope grabs her next, hoisting her into the boat as if she weighs nothing. He sets her down on a small bench next to Caspian who's shivering, his cheeks red and his nose runny, "Cold," he says again, his voice trembling this time.

Soarynn pulls him into her lap, wrapping her arms around him in hopes of giving him some warmth and comfort, "I know my darling, I know." She gazes back out at the water where Marvin is now being pulled in by the rope, both girls shrieking from how cold the water is. She anxiously watches the men grab both girls from Marvin's shoulders, tossing them onto the boat as well. They both scramble off the floor and rush to Soarynn, grabbing onto her the moment she's in reach.

"I'm scared," Celeste whispers, pulling herself onto the bench, "where's Daddy?" Soarynn looks out at the Resort but sees no one but the Rebels on the beach. "I don't know," she whispers back, "but we have to do as they say."

꧁ ꧂

Soarynn didn't know it was possible to feel so cold.

But with the rain, ocean water, and wind, she's convinced that they all might just die from hypothermia.

"Stay close to me," she murmurs, pulling both girls closer to her as the boat rocks even harder due to the large waves. She has no idea where they're going but none of these men have said anything to her and they don't look like they plan on it.

Soarynn had contemplated jumping ship, but that would be pointless. And a death wish.

She knows the girls can swim but not under these conditions. Besides, she doesn't know these waters and what lurks within them. She watches two men pull back the oars, pushing them towards what must be the wall that keeps people from escaping District Four. She'd heard of it before in school, how Peacekeepers patrolled the top of the wall, prepared to shoot anyone who tried to escape. There are grates at the bottom of the wall, allowing the marine life to swim in and out of the cove as they please but it must be so deep.

"Are...are we gonna die?" Ceraphina whispers, nuzzling her head against Soarynn's shoulder. Soarynn sniffles, her head is throbbing and her entire body is shaking from both the cold and the fear, "I don't know," she admits quietly, "but I'll do anything to protect you, as long as we listen we should be alright darling."

Ceraphina peers up at her and her face reflects worry and fear, "Soarynn, you're bleeding."

Soarynn lifts her hand to her face, to her nose more specifically where there is in fact blood dropping down from it. She wonders if the Captain broke it. She can still feel it which is a good sign. "I'm okay," she lies, giving Ceraphina a tight-lipped smile, "just a scratch." Ceraphina doesn't look like she believes her but they're interrupted by Marvin who stands up, the rockiness of the boat not even phasing him, "On your feet," he says.

Soarynn and the children stay firmly planted on the bench and he scoffs, "On your feet," he repeats, "we're leaving you here," he points at what looks like a buoy bobbing in the water, large enough for maybe one person. "We're not going anywhere," Soarynn replies with a shake of her head, doing her best to remain brave despite the circumstances.

The rest of the men laugh, making Soarynn feel more meek and smaller than before, "Just you pretty girl," he explains, grabbing her shoulder and yanking her off the bench, "not that you don't look like a good time, but we've already got what we need."

Her eyes widen when she realizes what he means, "No," she cries, "no I won't leave them!”

She looks back at the children, all watching with wide blue eyes full of fear while they cling to each other, "It's not your choice to make," he sneers, pushing her toward the edge of the boat, "now get off now before I throw your dead body into the water."

Soarynn digs her bare feet into the wooden floor of the boat, refusing to move any further, "I go nowhere without them," she tells him, throwing all of her weight against him for good measure. Soarynn must be stronger than she feels because Marvin's body disappears from behind her and she turns around just in time to watch him stumble into the edge of the boat, his arms flailing as he falls into the water.

The Captain stands up, wielding his gun and pointing it at Soarynn, "That's enough you little bitch. I was trying to be nice and let you off easy but now, I think I'll just have to shoot you before I take the kids."

Soarynn glares daggers at the man who's taken her captive, her rage seething through her fearful facade, "You will do nothing of the sort, if you kill me," she points at the cowering Snow children, "then they won't listen to a thing you say." Celeste and Ceraphina perk up at her statement and nod, giving him defiant looks, "Mhm, we'll scream and fight," Celeste tells him.

Soarynn raises an eyebrow at the Captain, "See? I'm the only one who can calm them down. You kill me, you won't be able to complete any of your objectives and this will all have been for nothing."

"Stop talking to her and fucking shoot her!" Marvin yells from the water, paddling towards the boat with an annoyed look on his face. If looks could kill, Soarynn would be dead by now. But she's not, and that's for one reason or another.

The Captain slowly lowers his gun, scoffing at Marvin's orders that clearly aren't respected in this hierarchy. The other two men haven't said a word this entire time. Maybe they're just being paid to row the boat and nothing more.

"If they act out, we might have to correct them," he tells her, some taunting in his tone and it makes her blood boil. Soarynn takes a step towards him, bloody nose and hypothermia be damned.

"No one touches my children," she says, raising a finger, "especially men who have no problem hurting women."

It's a standoff and she won't be the one who loses.

He finally smirks, looking her up and down before nodding, "Fine, but it'll be your head if not theirs."

Soarynn's bottom lip trembles but no tears escape her eyes, she's better than that. "I agree to your terms."

Soarynn turns back to the children, all three of them look absolutely terrified and it breaks her heart that there's nothing she can do to make this better. At least they won't be separated.

But what had Coriolanus said the first time they met?

"Nothing else matters but them. They're all I have now that Livia is gone. I can't have any more children. They're my future. My legacy. Should it come down to it, your life will come before theirs."

Soarynn hadn't ever thought that there might actually be a moment where it would come down to her life or the children's but she knows in her heart that she'd gladly give her life to save theirs. Coriolanus has lost so much already, she can't imagine him finding out about the death of his children as well.

Soarynn sits back down on the bench, her hands are shaking from the cold but she knows it also has to do with her fear, her nerves from standing up to these evil men. "It's okay," she whispers to the children, pulling Caspian back into her lap and kissing the top of his head, "it's okay, we're still together, we're okay."

The girls press themselves against her, desperate for comfort and she gladly gives it to them.

Her stormy blue eyes scan the ocean, looking for someone who might come and rescue them but she sees nothing but rain and thunder in the distance.

Coriolanus, where are you? She wonders, the wind blowing more hair in her face. She hopes he's alright wherever he is, if he's not dead already.

Would they assassinate the President?

They'd certainly kill a nanny.

That's all you are, she reminds herself. tears pooling in her eyes, just the nanny.

꧁ ꧂

They sit in the boat for what must be at least another hour if Soarynn's gauge of time is correct.

Finally, a strip of land comes into view and Soarynn feels some sort of relief even though all she sees are more Rebels from the looks of it, wielding lanterns and probably weapons with her luck.

Soarynn is just ready to get off the fucking boat.

She didn't know what it felt like to be seasick but she was starting to feel nauseous and so was Caspian from the looks of it, his porcelain face turning green the poor thing. Soarynn wishes she could magically pull out some medication but the best she can do is whisper words of encouragement.

The Captain stands up when the shore comes into view, waving a hand at the people watching them from the beach, "Looks like they're all here," he says to his men, a grin on his face, "now's not the time to get sloppy." His men grumble and Soarynn notices the dirty look that Marvin throws his way. Marvin is shivering himself, so now they're all in the same boat, literally.

"Are we gonna have to swim again?" Celeste whispers to her, tugging on Soarynn's dress that's now torn and dirtied. Soarynn brushes some wet curls from her face, staring into those sweet blue eyes that are usually filled with joy and kindness, "We might," she whispers back, "but we'll be okay."

Celeste merely nods in response before closing her eyes again and resting her head on Soarynn's shoulder. Soarynn does her best to ignore the pain that flares from the simple action, her arm hurts from where she's constantly been grabbed and yanked. She doesn't think her nose is bleeding anymore.

She looks down at Ceraphina whose eyes are also closed. It's late at night at this point, nearing midnight based off of the faint glow of the moon. Soarynn stares at the Captain from behind and wonders how long he's been planning this. He looks mighty pleased with himself, one foot leaning against the front of the boat, acting like the king of the world.

The boat is getting closer to the shore, maybe thirty yards at this point. They're probably going to have to swim again which worries Soarynn, the children can't handle being submerged in cold water again.

Before she can ask about how they're going to go about getting to shore, a gun goes off and Soarynn lets out s scream when the Captain falls back towards her, blood spurting from his arm from where he was shot.

His men go frantic, grabbing their own guns and pointing them in every direction.

Soarynn grabs both girls, holding them tight while Caspian clings to her dress, burying his face in her neck, "Don't move," she whispers, scanning the beach for where the gunshot might have come from.

"I can't do this anymore," one of the men whispers, his eyes wide and manic, "we're all gonna die, we have to go now!"

Marvin shakes his head and slips off of the bench he's been sitting on, sliding next to the Captain who's letting out pitiful groans, "Don't try to swim for it, you'll just get shot and drown."

Soarynn wonders if she and the children should take cover as well or if they should stay put. She looks back over at the beach where people are running around, frantically trying to get away. More gunshots ring through the air and she gasps when more Rebels drop dead on the sand, collapsing like ragdolls.

"Keep your eyes closed," she says to the girls, not wanting them to witness any more traumatic events tonight.

The manic man lets out a frustrated groan, his head whipping back and forth from the beach back to the boat where the Captain seems to be bleeding out from what Soarynn can see. And no one seems eager to come to his aid.

"Fuck this," he says, standing up, "I'm getting the hell out of here."

His accomplices try to deter him from jumping ship but he's made up his mind. They all watch him stand on the edge of the boat, bending his knees to jump and then they all watch a bullet pierce his skull, sending blood and who knows what else into the air. Soarynn screams again when some of the blood lands on her and the children, some of it even landing in her mouth.

All hell breaks loose then.

Rampant gunfire breaks out on the beach and she opens her eyes in time to see several Peacekeeper trucks driving over the dunes, firing at anyone in sight. Peacekeepers swarm the area, guns at the ready.

The calvary has arrived.

This isn't a fight the Rebels will win and both Marvin and the other man seem to realize this. Marvin quickly slips his legs over the side of the boat, slipping into the water without being shot which is a victory within itself. The other man isn't so lucky when he tries to stand up and is immediately shot several times in the chest, his limp body falling backward into the water.

Soarynn squeezes her eyes shut, wanting to block out this night for the rest of her life but then she hears something, hears someone.

"SOARYNN!"

Soarynn looks over her shoulder at the beach and she lets out a cry of relief when she sees Coriolanus on the beach, accompanied by Peacekeepers, Eudora, and another man who must be the Mayor.

"It's your father," she says, a frail laugh leaving her lips, "girls look it's your father."

The girls both open their eyes and turn to see their father on the beach, letting out excited gasps, "Daddy! Daddy came to rescue us!"

He came for them.

Soarynn's relief turns into something more primal, something more maternal, "We have to swim to the beach, we're not that far." She knows they could wait but the Captain is still alive, wounded but alive. Ceraphina frowns, looking down at the water, "But it's cold."

Soarynn nods, carefully standing up so as to not rock the boat, "I know but we have to get to safety. We can do it, I promise."

Celeste also stands up, determination in her eyes, "It's just like the bathtub," she says to her sister, offering her hand. Ceraphina furrows her brows, she looks so much like Coriolanus right now it's uncanny how alike they look when deciding on something. Surviving, it seems, is the decision she comes down to and she takes her little sister's hand.

"Okay," she agrees, "let's go."

Soarynn wraps her arms around Caspian tightly, murmuring a few more words of prayer before stepping onto the bench, one step away from plunging into the water. She thinks she can hear Eudora shouting for her to sit back down but she's so past caring right now.

"Here we go," she says and she jumps.

A wave of shock mixed with pain shoots through her body when her feet hit the sandy bottom. Soarynn pushes herself back up to the surface, gasping for air when she breaches the water. She can hear Caspian coughing which means he also didn't drown and die.

Soarynn opens her eyes and looks around to find that it's actually quite shallow. The water is up to her chest and while it is freezing, the current isn't too bad. "It's safe," she says to the girls who are watching her with hesitation, "and quite shallow. Come on, I'll catch you."

Ceraphina nods and steps onto the bench, helping Celeste climb up as well. "One, two, three!" The girls jump into the water and Soarynn wades towards them the moment they come up for air, grabbing both of them and pulling them into her. The girl's heads are bobbing above the water but they aren't drowning which is the most important part.

"Hold onto me and I'll pull us to shore," Soarynn instructs them, helping and making sure they have a good grip on something before she begins wading to the beach. She watches more trucks drive onto the beach, people are beginning to be arrested if they haven't been killed already.

Soarynn can feel her body slowing down. The cold is seeping into her bones, her nose hurts, her arm hurts. Wouldn't it be pitiful for her to drown in five feet of water?

But when she gazes towards Coriolanus again, she knows she needn't worry about a thing due to the fact that he's halfway in the water, wading towards them. Soarynn never thought in a million years that she'd see the President of Panem soaked in the ocean, but she knew he'd do anything for his children, even if it meant jumping into freezing waters.

The girls cry out when they see him, letting go of Soarynn the second he's within reaching distance to paddle towards him.

"Daddy! Daddy!"

Coriolanus scoops them out of the water as if they weigh nothing, holding them so tight while murmuring words of devotion and comfort. Soarynn feels herself tearing up at the sight, for a moment, she didn't know if they'd make it, if the children would ever see their father again.

A second later she hears the sound of a motorized boat and looks to her left where three Peacekeepers are driving towards them, hopefully with blankets. "We made it," she whispers to herself, watching their boat stop next to the wooden one where the Captain is still lying there, injured and abandoned. One of the Peacekeepers jumps into the boat, pulling the Captain onto his feet despite his pained protests.

Soarynn mindlessly peppers Caspian's head with kisses, feeling his little body cling to hers for warmth. She might as well keep heading towards shore, even if she can't feel her toes, or her feet, or her legs. Is she sinking?

Soarynn whimpers as her legs slowly begin to give out from under her, both her and Caspian gasping when their faces hit the cold water. They're only drowning for a second before a hand pulls them both up. It's one of the Peacekeepers from the boat and he looks very concerned for her wellbeing. "Are you alright miss?"

After the day she's had, Soarynn doesn't have it in her to lie.

"No," she answers truthfully, letting the man gently pull her up and into the boat, a world of a difference compared to how she was handled by the Rebels. She looks back into the water where Coriolanus is already wading back to shore, wasting no time to get his girls to safety. A blanket is draped over her shoulder a second later and Soarynn lets out a content sigh, making sure that Caspian is well covered. "Blanket," he says, a small smile on his sweet little face. Soarynn nods, kissing his forehead, "That's right sweet boy. We got a blanket and we got rescued."

Soarynn knows that sooner or later she'll be able to have a proper breakdown due to what's occurred tonight, but until then, she'll continue putting on a brave face.

She looks back at the boat she was held captive on, watching the Captain take quite a beating from the Peacekeeper who pulled him up. Good, she thinks to herself, he deserves it.

Their boat finally brushes up against the beach and Eudora is running up to her and Caspian with tears in her eyes, "Oh thank goodness! We were so worried!" Soarynn gives her a tired smile, she has no idea what happened to Eudora and Coriolanus during all of this commotion, but Eudora seems unscathed from what she can see.

"We're okay," Soarynn tells her, feeling unsteady on her feet when she slowly stands up. One of the Peacekeepers steadies her, "Let me take him," he offers. Soarynn appreciates the kind gesture, but she holds onto Caspian even tighter, "I'm fine," she insists, ignoring the concerned looks she gets from both Eudora and the Peacekeeper.

She shakily steps out of the boat, her feet feel numb when they touch the sandy shores but she feels better than she did in the ocean. Soarynn scans the beach, watching as people are detained and thrown into the backs of Peacekeeper trucks. "I...what happened?" She finally asks Eudora who rests a hand on her shoulder, "We were at dinner," Eudora starts but her voice dies off as she stares out into the ocean.

Soarynn turns and both women watch Coriolanus trudge onto the beach, both girls still in his hold. "Oh the poor things," Eudora whispers, "we were so, so worried about all of you when we checked the suite." Soarynn swallows and she can taste bits of salt, "It all happened so fast."

Two more men approach the Snow family, dressed in white uniforms with medic symbols on the backs of their jackets. They'll definitely need medical attention after the day they've had. Coriolanus carefully hands over the girls, his hands lingering on their backs before they're taken over to a small medic truck. Soarynn feels so grateful to have survived that, to be able to deliver all of his children to him.

One of the medics tends to both girls, giving them blankets while the other approaches her with a kind smile on his face. Soarynn steps back when he holds out his hands, "We've got him," he assures her, reaching for Caspian. Soarynn shakes her head, resting her hand on the back of Caspian's head to cradle him closer, "No, I..."

Another hand comes to rest on her other shoulder and this time, it's Coriolanus. He looks exhausted, his piercing blue eyes don't hold the usual authority she's used to. Instead, they hold worry, fear, and anxiety. "It's okay," he tells her, his voice so gentle, "let them take him. It's okay Soarynn."

She doesn't quite believe him, not after what's happened. How can she trust any of these people in Four?

Caspian lifts his head after hearing his father's voice, his eyes wide with excitement and he reaches out for him. Coriolanus sighs and grabs his small hand and gives it a squeeze, "You're alright Cas, he's alright." Soarynn still doesn't believe him but Coriolanus takes matters into his own hands and quite literally pries his son from Soarynn's iron grip, handing him over to the medic who offers her a reassuring smile.

Soarynn's hands feel so empty now that Caspian is gone. He peeks his head over the medic's shoulder, giving her a small wave despite everything they've endured tonight. Soarynn sniffles, wiping any trace of tears.

Eudora rubs soothing circles on the back of her shoulder, "It's alright dear, you're perfectly safe now." She doesn't feel safe, doesn't feel like everything is alright.

Her bottom lip trembles but she remains silent, the blanket on her shoulders falls onto the sand, revealing the torn state of her dress. She can feel Coriolanus tighten his grip on her shoulder, taking in the current state of her body. Soarynn stares at the sand, suddenly ashamed of the state she's in.

"Soarynn," he starts but she shakes her head, trying to hold it all in, "It's fine," she gets out, her voice breaking, "I'm fine, I...I shouldn't ha-"

Soarynn never gets to finish her sentence. Coriolanus pulls her into his embrace and she instantly melts into it, melts into the protective hold he puts over her. Soarynn hasn't felt a touch like this since her father, felt so safe and protected within seconds. She chokes out a sob, all the emotions hitting her all at once.

He rests a hand on the back of her head while she grabs onto his shirt, probably staining it with her tears and blood. He smells like roses.

"Thank you," he says quietly, his voice muffled, "thank you for bringing them back to me."

Soarynn doesn't feel as though she needs to be thanked for doing her job, so she simply nods, unable to form a coherent sentence. She can hear some sort of struggle ensuing on the beach, the sound of a man arguing with another man, one of their voices sounding terribly familiar.

The Captain.

They must have brought him to shore to properly detain him. "Keep moving," someone tells him. "Fuck you," he spits out. Soarynn takes a small peek at him, stunned at how battered and bruised he is in addition to the gunshot wound. He catches her looking and sneers in her direction, his lips curling up into a cruel smirk, "Looks like the President got his whore back safe and sound. Only wish I could've taken her for a spin."

It all happens so quickly then.

Coriolanus pushing Soarynn towards Eudora. Coriolanus grabbing the Captain by the collar of his shirt and slamming him into he ground. Coriolanus punching the Captain in the face over and over again.

Soarynn watches more blood pool from his face, dripping onto the sand while he lays their limp, coughing up more blood. Soarynn feels nauseous. She leans over to throw up but nothing comes out, only a few drops of blood from her nose which Eudora notices immediately. "Soarynn, you're bleeding!" Soarynn stands back up, stumbling on the sand, "I'm...I'm fine," she mumbles, wiping her nose with the back of her hand, "just, just tired."

Everything starts to grow black. Everything is so fuzzy.

The last thing she sees before falling into the sand is Coriolanus Snow knocking the Captain unconscious.

꧁ ꧂

When Soarynn wakes up, she's on a train.

At least, she thinks she's on a train.

She blinks up at the ceiling, her head is groggy and throbbing. She wants to sit up but she doesn't know if that would be wise. She looks over to her right at the bedside table where there's a glass of water and two orange pills on a small plate. She doesn't hesitate to grab the water, drinking half the glass before she takes the pills and swallows them down with the remaining water.

Hopefully, those were meant for her.

Soarynn listens to her surroundings for a moment. She can hear a few muffled voices from outside of the hallway. One of distinct enough to place it as Coriolanus, and the other is high-pitched enough to belong to Eudora. Did they already leave Four?

Soarynn then hears the patter of small footsteps running down the hall.

The children.

That's all Soarynn needs to motivate her to sit up. She groans once she's fully seated, resting against her headboard but her mind feels more clear now. Soarynn brings her hand up to her face and feels some bandages around her nose. Maybe it is broken. She then reaches for her shoulder and finds more bandaging has been wrapped around her upper arm as well.

She's dressed in a long-sleeved button-up shirt and flowy pants, both feel like pajamas. Soarynn probably shouldn't stand up, but she doesn't care, not after what she's been through. She swings her feet off the edge of the bed, firmly planting them on the floor. "Here we go," she whispers to herself, slowly pushing up from the bed. The train barely jostles while riding along the tracks but the slightest movement makes her feel unsteady.

Soarynn places a hand on the wall in front of her, leaning against it for support. She looks to her right into the bathroom and her eyes widen when she sees her reflection.

Her nose is bandaged and her left eye is slightly bruised. But other than that, there's no physical proof that she was kidnapped with the children. And that frightens her.

Was that even real if she has no scars to prove it?

Soarynn shakes those thoughts from her head and turns towards the bedroom door, brushing against the wall as she walks to it. It slides open and she pokes her head out, looking down both ends of the hallway. She sees no one but hears giggles coming from down the hall. Soarynn carefully steps out into the hall, wrapping her arms around herself as she walks down the hall to the children's room.

They've all gathered in Ceraphina's room it seems, the same room where she and Coriolanus put the girls to bed...one day ago? Or has it been two? She slept one night at the resort before everything fell apart. It feels like they got on this train years ago, not days ago.

Soarynn looks into the bedroom and finds all three children piled onto the bed while their father reads them a bedtime story. They all seem fine, dressed in warm pajamas with dry hair and faces. Soarynn took on the brunt of the physical assault so the children are unscathed on the surface.

She can't say the same on the inside.

The girls are enamored by whatever book Coriolanus is reading to them, both of them leaning against his chest while Caspain sits next to Ceraphina, his head resting against her shoulder. It's Caspian who notices Soarynn lingering in the doorway first, his bright blue eyes finding her within seconds, "Soar!"

Soarynn smiles and the girls both look up from the story, gasping when they see her walking about. "Soarynn, you're awake!" Celeste crawls over her father's lap and carefully slips off the edge of the bed, she runs to Soarynn and throws her arms around her legs, "Soarynn we missed you! We got to go back to the Resort and then we got on the train and now we're going home!"

Soarynn raises her eyebrows, did she really sleep through all of that?

She gives Celeste another smile although this one is less genuine than the first, "Oh my goodness, that sounds like quite a busy series of events. You must be very tired." Celeste shrugs and looks back at Coriolanus whose eyes are set on Soarynn, "I'm not that tired," she says, a small smile creeping onto her face, "but maybe you could sing us a lullaby to help us go to sleep."

Coriolanus goes to get off of the bed, already beginning to protest, "I don't think Soarynn is up for sin-"

"It's fine," Soarynn cuts him off, her voice soft and fragile, "I don't mind. Truly."

Coriolanus sits back down, a conflicted look on his face but Soarynn really doesn't mind singing to the children. It'll help her take her mind off of things.

"Get under the covers," she says softly. Celeste scurries back to the bed where Ceraphina pulls her back up, both of them groaning at the effort it takes.

"You're too heavy," Ceraphiana whines. Celeste shoots her a look, "Maybe you're not strong enough."

Soarynn shakes her head and walks into the room, "Be nice to each other girls." If they're already back to arguing then that means that they're not that shaken up from everything. Which is a good thing she hopes.

Caspian crawls towards Soarynn, a smile on his face, "Lenny comes," he says, looking back over at his shoulder where Lenny is sitting against the headboard. Soarynn nods, bending down to pick him up, "Lenny did come back with us darling, you're right."

Caspian places a hand on her bandaged nose, gently so as not to hurt her, "Hurt," he mumbles, a concerned look on his small face. Soarynn shakes her head, "I'm alright darling," she insists, placing a kiss on his own little nose, making him giggle, "I'm perfectly fine now that I've seen you and Lenny."

"And us," Ceraphina calls from under the covers.

Soarynn chuckles, walking along the edge of the bed until she reaches the top, "Yes, and you two as well," she agrees.

She gently places Caspian down on the bed, he usually sleeps in his crib but she can't blame him if he wants to be near his sisters after what happened.

Coriolanus rises from his spot on the bed, watching over his three children who look so precious tucked under the covers. All spitting images of him.

Soarynn clears her throat, she's never sung her lullaby to anyone but the children but he doesn't seem keen on leaving anytime soon. Soarynn takes a deep breath and begins to sing.

"Deep in the meadow, under the willow, A bed of grass, a soft green pillow. Lay down your head, and close your eyes, and when they open, the sun will rise. Here it's safe, here it's warm, here the daisies guard you from every harm. Here your dreams are sweet, and tomorrow brings them true. Here is the place where I love you."

Their little eyes slowly grow heavy until all three children are asleep. Soarynn reaches down to turn off the lamp on the bedside table and Coriolanus does the same on the other side of the bed. Neither of them makes any moves to leave, both of them watching the children that they'd gladly take a bullet for.

Soarynn eventually convinces herself that no evil men will sneak onto the train to take the children away and she quietly pads out of the room, Coriolanus right on her heels. She doesn't even say anything to him and doesn't protest when he grabs her wrist and gently leads her down the hall, all the way to the last bedroom. His bedroom.

Soarynn merely glances around the room that's slightly larger than hers before focusing on the man who brought her on this trip.

He looks so concerned, so worried.

So caring.

A world of a difference compared to how he used to look at her when she first started working for him.

"I'm so sorry," he finally says, his voice breaking at the end and it nearly breaks her as well, "I...I never imagined that this would happen to us. It shouldn't have happened to us," he corrects himself, "but it did and I'm so sorry that you were caught in the crossfire."

Soarynn purses her lips, studying him for a moment. He looks like a wreck to put things lightly. His curls are all tussled, there are bags under her eyes and his shirt is unbuttoned a little bit, showing off some of his upper chest. He looks like a man whose job is to run the country and then his children were kidnapped on a business trip so now he's trying to put all the pieces back together.

"The crossfire," Soarynn repeats, her voice soft yet hollow, "the crossfire of what? I...I thought we were safe at the Resort. I thought everything was fine in Four."

Coriolanus scowls, and his hand curls into a fist, "We were until we weren't," he says coldly, "Rebels caught wind of when we'd be visiting and they started to plan an attack, to plan how they'd break into the Resort and take my children hostage in exchange for me to stop the Hunger Games."

Soarynn's throat goes dry. She doesn't really pay attention to the Hunger Games, not when it's all about children being forced to kill one another in the name of pageantry and honor. But she can tell that this is personal for Coriolanus, in ways she doesn't wish to examine.

Not now at least. Not when he's still her boss.

"They didn't think I'd be there," she murmurs, remembering how those men called her a lucky catch. Coriolanus nods, his jaw slightly clenched but he's uncurled his fist which is a good sign, "They didn't know you existed," he states plainly.

Soarynn's eyes slightly widen at his words. They didn't know she existed?

"People in the Districts are given very little information compared to those who live in the Capitol," he explains, "mostly for safety reasons such as traveling with me. They didn't know about Eudora either until she was hurling her binder at them at dinner." Soarynn feels her lips pull up in a small smile, Eudora Trinket is a force to be reckoned with.

"They didn't know about you because I felt that it would be safer if you remained anonymous. You caught them off guard, and you...you saved my children," he whispers the last part. "You saved my children and I am eternally grateful for that Soarynn, I wish I could put it into words how grateful I am for that."

Soarynn nods, her eyes trained on the floor, "That's my job isn't it?"

Coriolanus reaches out with his other hand, gently cupping her face and lifting it so that she's looking him in the eye, "I'd say you went above and beyond for what the parameters of your job are," he says, his thumb gently caressing her cheek. His eyes travel down to her nose and he frowns, "How did this happen?"

Soarynn reaches up and feels the bandages covering her nose, it's not broken she's decided, but probably swollen. "He um...he hit me across the face with a gun," she says, her voice so far away, "I said we wouldn't get on the boat and he slapped me with his gun."

One hundred emotions flash through his eyes within a second, most of them being filled with anger and rage before he relaxes and all she can see is kindness and concern. "He'll die for that," he tells her calmly, "anyone who was in on the attack will be executed for treason."

Soarynn wishes that she could beg Coriolanus to spare those men but she can't, not after what they did, what they tried to do.

"Good," she decides, "they were quite brutish in their language."

He tightens his grip on her face, inspecting her for any further damage, "Did they...did they touch you in any way?"

That simple question leads Soarynn to realize that this attack could've had an ever worse ending than it already does. "No," she shakes her head, "they called me your whore, but other than that no, there was no sexual assault." He lets out a breath of relief, she’s sure he wouldn’t want to have to deal with one of his employees being assaulted on top of all of this.

They’ve already experienced enough with Festus.

She waits for him to remove his hand, to say goodnight and tell her how they’ll arrive at the Capitol tomorrow morning but he doesn’t and his hand stays on her face, his large fingers feel so warm against her skin.

“You know,” he murmurs, his thumb brushing back and forth against her cheek and Soarynn can feel her heart starting to beat a little faster but she doesn’t know why, “I used to only care for my children once Livia died, but after tonight, I found myself caring about someone else.”

Soarynn’s throat dries at the possibilities of what that could mean. “It’s good to care about those who you employ,” she states, but Coriolanus shakes his head, “You’re not just another employee Soarynn. You’re not just the nanny, you’re irreplaceable to us, to me.”

To him.

Soarynn feels frozen, she feels frozen as his other hand comes up to hold her face, she feels frozen when he leans down and his lips brush up against her own lips.

But she doesn’t feel frozen when she returns the kiss.

It’s the opposite of what she expected from Coriolanus who’s known for being stern and cynical. It’s gentle and so very patient as if he’s afraid that she might shatter into a million pieces. It feels so good, so right. Her own hands come to rest on his covered biceps and she wonders what it would be like if he took off his shirt, if she took off her own clothes and they spent the night tangled in his sheets.

We can’t, she reminds herself, we can’t.

She pulls away from the kiss, her lips parted and her voice is slightly breathless as she looks back up at up, “We can’t. We…we shouldn’t. The children are right down the hall and you’re my boss whether you like it or not. I wouldn’t want to put anything in jeopardy for the sake of intimate companionship.”

Coriolanus furrows his eyebrows, his hands remain holding her face but she doesn’t mind. She should but she doesn’t.

“You know you’re more than that right?” He ask, pressing his thumbs into her skin, “You’re more than the act itself and you’re more than just a warm body to me, I didn’t ever feel this way around Livia and yet you drive me mad Soarynn, absolutely mad.”

She drives him mad.

Soarynn licks her lips, remembering how his own tasted a few moments ago, “We still should stop. Tonight has been quite traumatic for all of us and I think we’d do well to get some much-needed rest before we return home.”

She hates how crestfallen his face looks but Soarynn knows this is for the best. If they continue to act on their primal urges, someone will get hurt, and it’ll be her.

Even though Coriolanus is a very handsome man, a very handsome man with adorable children that he loves very much…and such strong biceps. And he’s a very good kisser, and he makes her feel safe, and…she’s finding it very hard to find reasons not to end up in bed with him.

But he’s her boss!

The children come first, even before her own wants and needs…and desires.

Soarynn feels herself burning with shame but Coriolanus doesn’t seem to be embarrassed whatsoever. “Tonight has been quite traumatic,” he agrees, his face softens, “and I’d never forgive myself if you felt forced to comply with me and my own wishes.” Soarynn wants to tell him about the dreams she’s been having about him but maybe she should just keep those to herself.

She forces a small smile onto her face although it doesn’t quite reach her eyes, “Alright then. Thank you for checking on me once again. Your efforts haven’t gone unnoticed.”

He nods but he still looks hesitant to let her go. How will they go back to normal after everything that's transpired today? The kidnapping and then the kiss. Soarynn wonders if she even wants to go back to normal, back to a world where she and Coriolanus only exchange a few words when necessary, a world where he might one day show up with another woman on his arm, dismissing her as only the nanny.

"Stay with me," he says, "I'd feel much better if you stayed the night in this room with me," he quickly adds, his cheeks turn pink and Soarynn feels her lips curl up into a genuine smile this time. It's cute how a simple request can leave him so flustered.

She rests her own hand on his smooth-shaven cheek, Coriolanus truly is a most handsome creature, even when he's exhausted and clearly not thinking straight. "I'll stay until you fall asleep," she offers. Soarynn is all too familiar with sitting on the edge of the children's beds whenever they wake her up after a nightmare. Soarynn doesn't mind, she'll lull them back to sleep and then stay for a while in case they wake up again.

She never thought she'd be doing the same for Coriolanus Snow.

He looks as if he wants more, as if he wants her to stay the entire night but they can't risk that, can't risk the train attendants catching wind of this.

The President and his nanny, what a story for the tabloids.

No, Soarynn decides, it's best if this is a one-time thing.

"Alright," he finally agrees, grabbing her wrist and pressing a soft kiss to the palm of her hand. Soarynn feels butterflies in her stomach but she ignores them and lets Coriolanus lead her over to his bed. This bedroom is bigger than hers but he's a large man who needs quite a bit of room.

Coriolanus slides into his bed first and Soarynn follows behind him, feeling a bit excited and a bit nervous. She's never been in a bed with a man, let alone the President of Panem.

"Do you want me to read you a story?" She teases, grinning when he scoffs and rolls his eyes, "No," he replies, his fingers slowly unbuttoning his shirt, "I do not require the ten bedtime stories that my girls do."

Soarynn furrows her brows, "It's more like five," she counters.

Coriolanus gives her a look and shakes his head, "You forget that my children tell me everything, which includes how many stories they swindle you into reading them every night."

Well, he's got her there.

"It's hard to say no to them," she admits, knowing that Coriolanus will relate to that sentiment. He grunts in agreement, finally slipping out of his button-up and baring his upper torso to her. Soarynn looks down at her lap, fiddling with her fingers, "Should I turn off the lamp?'

"I suppose."

She needn't be told twice.

Soarynn reaches over to the lamp sitting on the bedside table and turns it off, waiting for Coriolanus to do the same on his side. "You're sure you don't want to stay for the entire night?" He presses, resting a hand on her shoulder, "I wake up before my household every morning, no one would know."

As lovely as that sounds, Soarynn would prefer to sleep in her own bed tonight. Not that sleeping in the same bed as Coriolanus doesn't sound enticing because it does, but after the way she was treated today, being around men makes her a bit...weary.

"I know," she replies, "but I'm still firm in my decision."

Coriolanus being the good man he is, doesn't push her any further and simply settles against the headboard after pulling up the covers. "Did they try to break into your suite first?"

Soarynn swallows, remembering the persistent knocks outside her doors, and how she almost opened them. "They did," she answers, brushing her hair behind her ears, "although I think they must've thought that the children had their own separate suite. They didn't know their bedroom was within your own suite. When did you learn of the attack?"

It's hard to see his expression in the dark room, but as they sit next to one another, shoulder to shoulder, she can see his face harden at the thought of the Rebels attacking them.

"We were all waiting for you at dinner," he says, "the Mayor, a few diplomats as well. But you weren't coming and I was beginning to think something might've happened with one of the children. A cut finger, an upset stomach, anything really. We had Peacekeepers guarding the doors to the dining room, real Peacekeepers," he continues, "but the doors had been locked from the outside. They tried to break down the doors but it was no use. We were trapped and without a clue as to where you and the children were."

Soarynn can't imagine how worried he must've been, not knowing what was going on outside, what had become of his children. But she got them out, got them back to him.

"Well, it's over now," she says softly, closing her eyes, "I do worry about the children though, how this will affect them." She feels Coriolanus take her hand into his, feels his long fingers lace between her own slender ones. She keeps her eyes shut because if she opens them, she might not leave this room.

"They seem fine now, but only time will tell," he muses, "but my children tend to forget things after a few weeks. With the holidays coming up, they'll have plenty to look forward to."

Soarynn can't say that she's surprised that he still plans to go back as if everything is normal. They'll celebrate the holidays and throw a party at the end of the year. He'll take family portraits and conduct interviews. District Four was only a momentary lapse in his schedule.

Then is that all she is right now? A lapse in his schedule?

Soarynn pulls her hand out of his grip when her own thumb rubs against his injured knuckles, opening her eyes and clearing her throat, "You should get some rest," she suggests, ignoring how fast her heart is beating and how Coriolanus beat the Captain until he fell unconscious for her, "we should arrive at the Capitol by morning."

Soarynn knows that he's looking at her with those piercing blue eyes but she refuses to look anywhere in his direction right now. This is so wrong, she thinks to herself, I'm in bed with my employer right now, in bed with the President of Panem. No wonder people think I'm his whore.

"Yes, we should. Well, goodnight then. Thank you for staying."

Soarynn nods even though he can't see her, "Of course. Sleep well."

She listens to him rustle with his pillow and lay down, listens to his breaths grow deeper and slower, more heavy. Soarynn looks down at Coriolanus Snow who's already sound asleep. She'd do well to get some rest as well. She wonders if he slept in the same bed as Livia or if they slept in separate rooms. She knows that they didn't share any true love but sleeping in the same bed is something you can do with anyone.

Even your boss.

Soarynn gives his sleeping form one last glance before she carefully slips out of the bed and pads out into the hallway. She looks back over her shoulder just once where a streak of light from the hallway is illuminating his face. He looks so handsome, so handsome and so much younger when he's asleep as if he doesn't have the world on his shoulders.

Soarynn makes sure the door closes behind her before she walks down the hallway to her own room, only stopping to look in on the children who are all sound asleep in bed.

Soarynn flops onto her own bed with a groan. She'll probably be given a full medical and psychological evaluation once they get back to truly assess any damage. She brings her hand up and gently touches her nose, it doesn't hurt, it didn't hurt when it brushed up against his nose when they kissed.

Oh, when they kissed.

"What're you doing Soarynn?" She whispers, staring up at the ceiling, "Get a grip, get your head straight. One traumatic event doesn't mean you get to kiss your boss."

It was nice though, kissing Coriolanus after dreaming about it. She never knew he felt the same way but the more she thinks about it, the more she wonders if he does feel the same way.

Was she just a quick way to blow off steam?

Is she really just the President's whore?

Soarynn crawls under the covers, turning off the bedside lamp encasing her in darkness and she gladly welcomes it.

"You're the nanny Soarynn," she reminds herself, "nothing more nothing less."

Even though she wonders what it might be like to be seen as more.

| Part 7. |

| tumblr oneshot/drabble |

{ Part 8. }

꧁| taglist: @lovelylove268 @strawberriicakes @kickmybark @inmydelusions-icanfixhim @wonderlandbound111 @melodyoflove99 |꧂

[slaymitchabernathy]

The Night Before Christmas

Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house, lots of creatures were stirring, aside from a mouse.

Coriolanus peeks his head out of his study when he hears little feet running by and catches a glimpse of one of his children rounding the corner. He shakes his head, he's told them countless times not to run in the house, they have neighbors below them who he'd like to remain on good terms with.

"Ceraphina darling, let's fix your hair," Soarynn calls from down the hall.

Coriolanus readies himself this time, standing in the doorway when his oldest daughter runs by him and he reaches out, grabbing her and scooping her up. "Daddy!" She shrieks, kicking her feet in the air, "Daddy, put me down!"

Coriolanus chuckles, pressing a kiss to the side of her head, "What have I told you about running hmm? We don't want to upset the Dolittles sweetheart." Ceraphina at least has the decency to look guilty at being caught red-handed and rests a hand on his shoulder, "I won't ever do it again," she promises even though they both know she will.

He hums, gently setting her back down on the floor, "I'll hold you to that, now go find your mother so you can get ready for the show."

Coriolanus bought tickets to the ballet for tonight, the night before Christmas, and as expected, the children are very excited. The girls are the most excited since this is a chance to see the pretty ballerines in their costumes. For Caspian, it simply means getting to stay up past his bedtime which is a treat in itself.

Ceraphina makes a big show of slowly walking down the hallway to find her mother and Coriolanus goes back into his study, he ought to start getting ready himself. He puts his work away, neatly stacking his papers and putting away his pens when he hears a meow. He looks down at the floor and finds Petunia looking up at him.

Petunia is...well she's...Petunia is Soarynn's cat. There, that's the perfect way to explain his relationship with Petunia, she belongs to his wife which has led to them having to form something of a relationship. Most days they ignore each other but it's moments like this when everyone is busy that she seeks him out to bother him.

Coriolanus is not impressed when she rolls onto her back, paws in the air and a tilt to her head, "Go away," he tells the feline, closing the drawer to his desk, "or go find Soarynn." Petunia swipes at his shoes but he dodges her attack, after living with her for a good six years, he knows how she operates.

"Daddy look!"

He turns back to the doorway and sees that his youngest daughter is ready for tonight. Her hair has been pulled away from her face into a ponytail and he can see the big red bow Soarynn tied around it. Celeste is wearing a cute green dress with white tights and shiny black shoes with a little strap going across them. She looks adorable.

"Well, don't you look pretty? Do a twirl for me princess," he says, smiling when Celeste holds out her arms and spins around, almost falling over in the process but he reaches out and steadies her. "Was I just like the ballerinas Daddy?"

Coriolanus warily eyes Petunia who has now rolled back onto her feet and is slowly approaching him and Celeste. She's so sweet with the children which means that she purposely goes out of her way to be rude to him and only him.

"Yes you were darling," he answers, taking a step back, "why don't you and Petunia go find your mother hmm?"

"But I just saw Mommy, she said I was ready."

Petunia is getting ready to lunge and Coriolanus is getting ready to run, "Well, go see her again, and take Petunia with you please."

Celeste gives him a curious look but the four-year-old asks no questions and picks Petunia up, groaning at the small weight she has to carry, "C'mon Petunia, let's go find Mommy."

Petunia glares at Coriolanus before she's carried away and he smirks, she'll be subjected to cuddles and pets, what a terrible life to live. She probably thought that she had him cornered with Celeste in the room but he's quicker than that.

And Snow always lands on top.

꧁ ꧂

Thirty minutes later, Coriolanus is ready for dinner and a show.

He looks rather dashing in his red suit with a heavy red coat to match. They get cold winters in the Capitol with the mountains so close by and he knows better than to underestimate the weather.

He's putting on his gloves when Ceraphina and Celeste come into his closet, both wearing their sweetest smiles, "Come look at how pretty Mommy looks," Celeste says, tugging on his coat. Coriolanus slips his wallet into his pocket before complying with their wishes and following them out into the bedroom.

Soarynn had gotten all three children dressed and ready for the ballet in the time it took him to get one child ready, once again solidifying that he truly married the perfect woman. And he almost loses his breath when he sees how stunning she looks tonight.

While all three of their children are dressed in green, it seems that she tore a page out of his book and wore red. Her dress clings to her figure, showing off her curves in all the right places. It's long-sleeved and the sleeves have intricate beaded patterns sewn into them, truly making this dress a piece of art. The neckline goes straight across her neck, showing off her collarbones while still remaining tasteful.

He's at a loss for words.

"Doesn't Mommy look pretty?"

Coriolanus manages to nod and pick his jaw off the floor, "She looks very pretty," he agrees, deciding that tonight will end with that dress on the floor.

Soarynn smiles so sweetly at his compliment and comes over to him, fussing with his tie and the lapels of his suit, "Well you look very handsome Coryo," she purrs, doing nothing to help his growing desire for her. He rests his hands on her waist, almost wishing the children weren't present but he still leans in and pecks her lips.

The girls sigh like they always do whenever witnessing something they consider romantic. They'll love the ballet since there's bound to be some romance. "Momma, bring Lenny please," Caspian says, tugging on her dress and breaking their kiss. Soarynn gives him a sad smile and shakes her head, "Lenny can't come, darling," she explains, crouching down to be at their son's level, "he has to stay home."

Caspian pouts and Coriolanus can see that his son is already on the verge of tears which they cannot afford if they plan on making it out the door on time. "You know, Cecil will be there tonight Cas," he reminds his son, "so you'll have lots of company."

The Snows will be joining the Creeds at the ballet tonight and Festus phoned him just this morning to tell him that their son Cecil would be in attendance. Caspian and Cecil are two months apart in age and love to toddle around together whenever the families get together.

Sure enough, Caspian lights up at the idea of seeing his friend at the ballet, and the tears are kept at bay. Soarynn whispers a few more encouraging words to their youngest child before kissing his cheek. While the girls have Coriolanus wrapped around their fingers, Caspian has Soarynn in the palm of his hand.

Soarynn always denies such claims, arguing that boys should be raised with a very involved mother so they grow up into proper gentlemen but Coriolanus knows that she's only telling half the truth. The other half is that she simply adores Caspian, her only son and last child. He's a spitting image of Coriolanus with his bright blue eyes and golden curls and Soarynn can't help but dote on him.

Caspian allows her to pick him up and Coriolanus turns back to the girls, "Are we ready to go then?" They both nod, bouncing on their toes, "Yes!"

Soarynn dressed both the girls in the same outfit and they look nearly identical. Ceraphina looks more like Soarynn with her wavy hair and blue-gray eyes and Celeste seems to be a mix of her parents with her blond curls and blue eyes. They're so close in age that people often have trouble telling them apart.

"Alright," he says, "I expect you girls to be on your best behavior," he warns, "no fighting, no fussing, no arguing. Or Santa won't come and bring you any presents."

Their eyes widen at the threat and Soarynn nudges him with her elbow, "Really?" She whispers, not looking too pleased with the threat, "I've just secured us perfect behavior for tonight darling," he insists, resting his hand on her back, "now let's go enjoy the ballet."

꧁ ꧂

They arrive at the theater with ten minutes to spare.

While they made it out of the door on time, Coriolanus hadn't anticipated the traffic that Christmas Eve would bring. But they made it and that's all that matters. The Snow family follows an usher down the lavishly decorated hallway to their private box and the girls are teeming with excitement.

"Here you are Mr. Snow, please don't hesitate to ask for assistance should you need any," the young man says to Coriolanus, bowing at the waist. Coriolanus grunts and Soarynn gives the man a kind smile, "Thank you," she says, "and Merry Christmas."

Coriolanus opens the door to their box and the Creeds are already seated. "Look who finally showed up," Festus jokes, rising from his seat. Coriolanus rolls his eyes, stepping to the side so the rest of his family can come inside. The girls walk in first, amazed at all the ornate details and light fixtures.

"Hello Mr. Creed," Ceraphina says once she tears her focus away from the opulence that comes with being a Snow. Coriolanus is more than pleased with how polite his children are at such a young age and watches them shake his good friend's hand before making their way over to his wife, Persephone.

"Oh, Festus, you look so handsome," Soarynn says, the last to enter the small room, "we're so glad you all could join us tonight." Festus smiles and greets Soarynn with the expected kiss on the cheek and gives Caspian a wink, "It took some convincing to get Persephone out of the house but we made it," he says with a sigh.

Coriolanus knows exactly why it's been so hard to get Persephone out of the house the past month, it's because she's pregnant and is at the stage where everything is uncomfortable and too loud. But she seems to be in good spirits when he looks over at her talking to the girls.

"Well, I'm sure she's ready for your second baby boy to be here," Soarynn replies, a fond look in her eyes while holding Caspian. "Cecil," is all Caspian says, looking around for his own friend.

"Cecil is right over there," Festus points at his wife, "he keeps trying to sit in his mother's lap but his little brother takes up quite a bit of room." Soarynn sighs and Coriolanus can see her remembering what it was like being pregnant. Unlike some women, Soarynn loved being pregnant, she would've carried Persephone's baby if she could've.

She gives Coriolanus a hopeful look and he's quick to shake his head, "Absolutely not," he tells her before she can start planning for a fourth child, "we are three and done."

Festus chuckles and pats Coriolanus on the back, "That's what I told Persephone, one and done and now look at us."

Soarynn goes over to her good friend and Coriolanus doesn't feel any better when he sees Soarynn rest a hand on her protruding baby bump, "We don't need any more children," Coriolanus says, more to himself than to Festus. They really don't. Soarynn has given him three perfect children, why have another and ruin their odds?

He's always had a healthy fear of pregnancy, more so the birth since his own mother tragically died giving birth to his little sister who also died. Watching Soarynn push all three of their children out was terrifying even though she did it tremendously well.

He can't risk losing her.

"I suppose it's up to fate really, now why don't we order a drink and sit down," Festus suggests. Coriolanus nods in agreement, a drink is just what he needs right now. The two men place an order for two glasses of bourbon before going to their seats where Coriolanus properly greets Persephone and Cecil who is in fact, trying to sit in her lap.

"He's soaking in his last days as an only child," Persephone explains, rubbing her stomach, "and his days are numbered."

Ceraphina rests her hands on the edge of the balcony, peering down at the stage and the other people who will be watching the show, "Was I an only child Daddy?"

Coriolanus rests a hand on Soarynn's knee, leaning back into his seat, "You were sweetheart," he answers, "but only for a little while." Ceraphina and Celeste are barely a year apart due to how quickly Soarynn got pregnant after giving birth to Ceraphina. She was far too young to understand what was going on around her before her little sister arrived.

"Ceraphina darling, come sit down," Soarynn says, patting the empty seat next to her. Ceraphina does as she's told and sits down next to Soarynn with Celeste to her left. Coriolanus looks to his right where Festus is sitting and then Persephone and a struggling Cecil who's determined to sit in his mother's lap.

Festus shake his head at the sight, "He's a bit of a slow learner."

Coriolanus is glad that Caspian is a quiet toddler who doesn't ever put up much of a fuss. He looks very content in Soarynn's lap, his head resting on her chest. Soarynn dressed him in a little green suit and even slicked back his curls the same way Coriolanus does to his own curls.

The lights finally dim and a hush falls over the room. The girls whisper to each other, on the edge of their seats for the show to start. "Here are your drinks," an attendant says quietly from behind them. Coriolanus turns and gladly takes both glasses of bourbon and hands on to Festus who grins, "To a happy holiday," Festus whispers. Coriolanus taps his glass against his, "And to many more," he whispers back.

He looks at Soarynn who seems so content with this life they've created, Caspian in her lap while she holds Ceraphina's hand.

Yes, he decides, bringing the glass to his lips, to many more moments like this.

꧁ ꧂

The girls chatter about the ballet the whole time during dinner as if everyone wasn't just there to witness it.

But Coriolanus doesn't mind, he's simply pleased with their good behavior and proper manners. Caspian has behaved exceptionally well tonight too, not putting up any fuss despite staying up past his bedtime. Both little boys are sitting in their parent's laps, keeping themselves occupied by playing with the napkins.

"I honestly can't wait for him to start going to school," Festus admits, running a hand over Cecil's curls. With Persephone carrying a child already, Cecil landed in his father's lap and it's quite amusing to see Festus Creed with a child in his lap, especially after seeing him make a fool of himself when they were younger.

Coriolanus thinks back to his own days at the Academy, he was a stellar student and that's where he met Soarynn. She was in his art class and he was tragically doomed when it came to being creative. Soarynn had so sweetly offered to help and Coriolanus was also tragically doomed to fall in love with her. He asked her out on a date and the rest was history.

He wishes he could go back in time and tell his younger self that everything worked out in the end, they married the girl, had three children, and were more successful than ever.

"I like school," Ceraphina chimes in, finally talking about something else rather than the ballet. Soarynn nods and smiles, "Yes you do darling, and next year Celeste will join you."

Celeste perks up at the mention of her attending the Academy next year. The Academy is the most prestigious school in the Capitol. If you want your children to have a successful future then you'll pay the whopping tuition and send them there for the next twelve years or so.

The Snows will obviously be sending all three of their children there but Coriolanus knows how much Soarynn will miss her days filled with arts and crafts and reading stories. No wonder she wants another baby.

"Tuition has gone up hasn't it?" Persephone asks and Coriolanus grunts, reaching for his glass of wine if he's going to have to talk about money, "It certainly has," he confirms, "it goes up every year."

Soarynn places her hand on top of his, giving it a squeeze, "But we're paying for a proper education for all three of our children," she sweetly reminds him. She has a point but it doesn't change the fact that Coriolanus will at some point be paying for three tuitions, not to mention sports, extracurricular activities, uniforms, and who knows what else. And they always make donations on top of that.

Soarynn has always insisted on donating to the school, as if they don't already run him dry but he supposes that it sounds like a great idea when she's not the one working every day.

"I can get a job to help," Ceraphina quickly offers, "I'm good at counting." All the adults chuckle at her naive way of thinking, so innocent and sweet, "That won't be necessary darling," Coriolanus assures her, "we can afford all the tuitions in the world."

Persephone changes the topic to a possible trip to District Four but Coriolanus keeps his focus on Soarynn who's holding a now-sleeping Caspian in her lap. He might make jokes about being the sole breadwinner in their family but after all she's given him, he wouldn't have it any other way.

Soarynn has given him something that money could never buy. She gave him a family, a legacy, a purpose.

If she were a gift then she'd be priceless.

꧁ ꧂

"Let's put the cookies over here girls."

Coriolanus watches Soarynn and the girls carry a plate of cookies into the living room where their Christmas tree is, getting ready for Santa to visit their penthouse.

"Will Santa be able to get in our apartment?" Celeste asks, sticking her head into their fireplace that Coriolanus hasn't used in about ten years. Soarynn decorated it with stockings and garlands but Celeste looks skeptical about how Santa will be getting into their penthouse tonight.

"Of course, he will," Coriolanus answers, "Santa finds a way to get into everyone's house."

There are many things that one can never prepare for when becoming a parent but Coriolanus was never prepared for Santa. It started when Ceraphina was two and actually was able to grasp the concept of Christmas and Santa and they've kept it up ever since.

"Now we leave these here for Santa to eat when he comes later tonight," Soarynn explains to the children, "then in the morning, we can wake up and open our presents." Caspian bounces on his toes, gripping the coffee table for support, "Santa comes now!"

Soarynn grins and pushes the plate in the middle of the table, "He only comes once you're sleeping Cas," she reminds their son, "so we all have to go to sleep now."

Coriolanus knows that the girls won't be able to sleep a wink tonight but Caspian can sleep through anything, a trait he inherited from his mother. The Capitol could be bombed and Soarynn would still sleep through it.

Coriolanus on the other hand wakes up at the slightest noise. Soarynn teases him about it all the time, claiming that he's paranoid but he sees it as being protective. He would never forgive himself if something were to happen to any of his children while he was asleep.

"Yes, let's go to bed," Coriolanus says, holding a hand out to Celeste who gingerly takes it, glancing back at their twinkling Christmas tree. The children love getting to decorate it and Soarynn always does such a good job at decorating their entire apartment.

They all make their way to the children's respective bedrooms and the girls manage to swindle Coriolanus into letting them sleep together. "It's so we can sleep better," Ceraphina explains, climbing into her canopy bed. Celeste nods and grunts, having to use a little more effort to climb onto the bed, "Yep, we've gotta sleep together 'cause we'll fall asleep quicker Daddy."

Coriolanus gives her a boost and a knowing look, "Really? Well, Santa will know if you're not asleep," he reminds them, "and he won't come unless everyone is sleeping."

The girls get under the covers and look up at him with wide eyes, hanging onto his every word, "We'll go to sleep," Celeste promises, "and then we'll come wake you and Mommy up in the morning!"

Coriolanus does his best to look excited about the early wakeup call he'll be getting at the crack of dawn from his children. The girls normally sleep until either he or Soarynn wakes them up but Christmas calls for a special occasion.

"We'll be looking forward to that. Now close your eyes and go to sleep hmm?"

Coriolanus leans down, pressing a kiss to each of their foreheads the way he does every night, "Goodnight Daddy."

Coriolanus smiles, smoothing down Ceraphina's hair, "Goodnight my princesses, I'll see you in the morning."

After making sure that they're all tucked in, Coriolanus quietly pads to the doors and turns off the light, looking back to make sure that they're actually asleep and not pretending. He fell for that before and he's never going to fall for it again.

Soarynn appears in the doorway just as he's about to leave and she peeks into their room, a fond look in her eyes, "Goodnight girls," she whispers, blowing them a kiss, "we'll see you in the morning."

Coriolanus wraps an arm around her waist and leads them out into the hallway, closing the doors behind them, "Caspian is asleep?" He asks while nuzzling her cheek with his nose, making her giggle, "Yes," she says, wrapping her arms around his neck, "not a creature is stirring except for us."

Coriolanus slides his other hand down her dress, stopping when he reaches the small of her waist, "You know, we could be really naughty tonight," he whispers, kissing her cheek. Soarynn leans into his touch, fully trusting him to hold her, "But we've been so good this year," she counters, teasing him while scratching the back of his neck.

Coriolanus groans, she's always known his weak spots and is so pesky when she takes advantage of them

"Santa won't mind," he promises, moving his lips to her soft ones, kissing her deeply. Soarynn instantly responds to his touch and moans when his hand slides a little further down, squeezing her ass, "Our bedroom," she whispers urgently and Coriolanus is happy to take her to their sacred space.

Most nights that end like this are considered perfect in his mind. But this night is more special than most.

It's the night before Christmas.

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